Lakers center reinforcement plan is revealed! Two inside players become popular targets, Capela becomes alternative

June 4th News The Lakers' offseason signing roadmap is gradually becoming clear! According to the latest report by Khobi Price, a senior team reporter for the Orange County Chronicle, as the contract of substitute center Jaxson Hayes expires, the Purple and Gold Army has made the No. 5 a priority in the offseason. Price pointed out in-depth analysis that considering the actual conditions, the Lakers are more likely to target powerful centers rather than chasing big fish at the All-Star level.

The two popular candidates surfaced:

Daniel Gafford: This athletic insider has proved himself by Doncic. He has only one year left for three years and $40 million contract (24-25 seasons). Price analysis believes that the Mavericks have two inside pillars, Lefly and Thick Brows, and are unlikely to offer a big contract renewal for Gafford, which provides an opportunity for the Lakers' trade.

Nicolas Clarkston: The Nets' defensive pillar is another frequently mentioned name. Clarkston just signed a four-year renewal contract worth $97 million last summer, which is a decreasing structure (salary experts have analyzed that this means the lowest salary in the last year of the contract). Price revealed that if the Lakers want to get him, the trading chips they need to pay will be much higher than Governor.

Reliable Alternative: Capela leads

Price revealed that full free agent Clint Capela ranks third on the Lakers' signing list. Although the "Pie King" has declined slightly in form in recent seasons, he is still regarded as an experienced and trustworthy traditional center. More importantly, his next contract is not expected to be too expensive, in line with the Lakers' pragmatic signing strategy.

In-depth list: Five powerful candidates

Price also lists other center candidates that the Lakers may consider:

Goga Bitaze (Magic): There are 2 years left in the contract.

Dalon Sharp (Nets): Will be a restricted free agent this summer (Note: the parent team has the right to match any offer).

Luke Cornett (Celtic): Will be a full free agent this summer.

Larry Nance Jr. (Pelicans): Will be a full free agent this summer.

Preshes Achuva (Knicks): Will be a full free agent this summer.

The Lakers management's focus this summer has been very clear: find a practical center that can support the inside and increase the depth of the lineup. The trends of Gafford and Clarkston will undoubtedly become the focus, and Capela and the players on the subsequent roster may also become the key puzzle for the Purple and Gold Legion to strengthen the penalty area at any time.