Los Angeles Lakers Target Trade Deals for Center Daniel Gafford and Wing Andrew Wiggins

The Los Angeles Lakers, coming off a first‑round sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder, are evaluating roster upgrades to build around Luka Dončić. One proposal would send Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford to Los Angeles in exchange for young pieces and a first‑round pick, addressing the Lakers’ need for a true rim‑protector after a disappointing season from DeAndre Ayton.

Another trade scenario outlined by analysts involves acquiring veteran wing Andrew Wiggins from the Miami Heat. The Lakers could offer expiring contracts such as Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht, and a future second‑round pick to provide Miami with flexibility while adding a championship‑experienced wing to complement LeBron James, who will also become a free agent this summer.

Both options are aimed at improving the team’s defensive size and depth as the franchise plans for the 2026‑27 season, while navigating salary‑cap constraints and the uncertain futures of James and Dončić’s health.