The Los Angeles Lakers' offseason focus is beyond obvious, with the team searching for lob threats and rim protection. Alex Len and Jaxson Hayes are both scheduled to become free agents when the offseason officially begins.
There is no need to go into Len's future with anyone having been unfortunate enough to watch the veteran's minutes, understanding what is to come. For Hayes, things are a bit more difficult. Prior to the playoffs, the center was an important piece of the Los Angeles starting lineup. Hayes showed vast improvement after the Luka Doncic trade, bringing more energy and attacking the glass.
However, when the lights were brightest, the moment was simply too big for a player who was exposed. With this in mind, the Lakers need to turn the page from Jaxson Hayes and find another answer.
Looking at the trade market, there is no shortage of centers expected to be on the move in the next weeks. With the Orlando Magic already kicking off offseason trades with the blockbuster deal to acquire Desmond Bane, it seems we are off and running.
Lakers Must Replace Struggling Center Jaxson Hayes
While the Lakers lack any picks of note, the team can use its limited draft capital to add a piece that gives the team a chance to compete for a championship. With LeBron and Luka both expected back for the 2025-26 season, the expectation should be continuing to sacrifice the future for a chance to win it all.
This approach has already worked once, with the Lakers winning one championship in the LeBron era. Last season was sacrificed in favor of the future, with the team unable to find a complete lineup after trading Anthony Davis for the former Mavericks star. It was unquestionably the right decision; however, it did sacrifice what chance the team had to win this season.
Looking at the market, it seems that Jarrett Allen should be the first call that Los Angeles makes. Allen is both a lob threat and a great rim protector. It is the type of piece that would push the Lakers over the top into championship contention. Fans should expect this to remain the team's focus as the franchise looks to build a contender and officially begin the Luka era in Los Angeles.