The Athletic provides live coverage of the 2025 NBA trade deadline, with the Los Angeles Lakers making a significant move by acquiring Luka Dončić. While the deal may not be the best on-court fit for the team’s current playoff hopes, it is seen as a necessary move for the future of the organization. Despite having to part with Anthony Davis and future first-round picks, the Lakers view acquiring Dončić as a no-brainer that positions them well for the future.
The trade is considered the opening salvo in the Cap Space Olympics leading up to the summer of 2026, which is expected to feature a star-studded free-agent class. With players like Kevin Durant, Damian Lillard, and Giannis Antetokounmpo potentially hitting the market, the Lakers are poised to capitalize on their cap-space flexibility.
With Dončić now on the roster, the Lakers are in a strong position to attract other star players in the future. As they prepare for the 2026 offseason, the team will focus on maintaining salary cap flexibility and making strategic moves to supplement Dončić with low-cost options or players with short-term contracts.
In the meantime, the Lakers will look to address their immediate needs for a perimeter defender and center. Players like Day’Ron Sharpe, Jonas Valančiūnas, and Chris Boucher are considered potential targets to bolster the team’s roster. The Lakers’ approach at the trade deadline will be centered around building a competitive team for the present while also keeping an eye on their long-term plans and potential free-agent opportunities in 2026.
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