Lakers’ Offseason Shake-Up: A 7-Foot-2 All-Star Joins Forces with Luka Dončić and LeBron James in the Ultimate Big 3
As the NBA offseason unfolds, the Los Angeles Lakers have been making waves with a series of bold moves that could dramatically reshape the Western Conference. After a successful playoff run in the 2023-2024 season, the Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, are on the hunt to improve their roster and add more firepower for another championship push. Enter the rumors surrounding a potential blockbuster acquisition—a 7-foot-2 All-Star big man who could form an imposing Big 3 alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić.
The Perfect Storm: A Dominant Big Man, LeBron James, and Luka Dončić
In the NBA, teams are always looking to create the ultimate trio that can contend for championships. Historically, the idea of a dominant, versatile trio of superstars has proven to be a winning formula, from the Miami Heat’s Big 3 of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh to the Golden State Warriors’ trio of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Kevin Durant. The Lakers, armed with the league’s most iconic player in LeBron James and a rising superstar in Luka Dončić, seem to be on the verge of creating their own version of the Big 3.
But what could really elevate their chances of dominating the NBA is adding a 7-foot-2 All-Star to their roster—someone capable of altering the game on both ends of the floor. While the identity of this player remains a subject of intense speculation, the addition of such a towering figure would immediately give the Lakers a formidable presence in the paint.
The Strategic Fit: Why a 7-Foot-2 All-Star Works for the Lakers
At first glance, the idea of adding a 7-foot-2 big man to a team already containing LeBron James and Luka Dončić might seem like an odd combination. However, on closer inspection, the fit makes perfect sense for the Lakers’ future aspirations.
- A Dominant Rim Protector: The NBA has increasingly become a guard-driven league, but there’s still significant value in having a dominant big man capable of protecting the rim. In the Lakers’ case, a 7-foot-2 All-Star center or power forward would offer a crucial layer of defense, particularly when facing off against the likes of Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, or other high-scoring bigs in the West. This player would also provide a physical presence in the paint, both as a shot-blocker and a rebounder.
- Offensive Versatility: The Lakers already have two of the league’s most skilled and versatile offensive players in LeBron James and Luka Dončić. However, adding a big man with the skillset to stretch the floor, set screens, and finish around the basket would help maximize their offensive potential. Imagine LeBron James and Luka Dončić orchestrating pick-and-roll sets with a towering figure who can either roll to the basket for easy finishes or pop out to hit mid-range shots and even 3-pointers. The options would be endless.
- A True Third Superstar: While Anthony Davis has been an integral part of the Lakers’ championship success, his injury history has sometimes left the Lakers short-handed. A 7-foot-2 All-Star could offer a more consistent option as the third star in the lineup. Unlike other big men who may be limited to post-up plays or rebounding, this particular All-Star—whether they possess shooting range or elite passing ability—could seamlessly integrate into the Lakers’ offense, contributing as both a scoring and facilitating option.
- Balancing the Lakers’ Weaknesses: One of the Lakers’ ongoing struggles in recent seasons has been maintaining consistency in the frontcourt, especially when it comes to scoring and rebounding. A 7-foot-2 player, with elite skill and mobility, would help cover some of these gaps. Whether it’s protecting the paint or providing a scoring threat in the low post, this type of player could allow LeBron and Luka to focus on what they do best—creating plays and setting up teammates.
The Superstar Potential: Who Is the Mystery 7-Foot-2 All-Star?
As of now, the rumors are still swirling about who exactly the Lakers are targeting. A handful of potential candidates have emerged as likely options. Here are some of the top possibilities:
- Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets): The reigning two-time MVP and one of the best big men in NBA history, Jokić brings everything to the table—a great passing game, scoring ability, and elite basketball IQ. Although the Denver Nuggets would likely be hesitant to part with their superstar, rumors suggest that the Lakers could potentially offer a trade package so enticing that Jokić might consider the move. With his elite playmaking and versatility, Jokić would fit seamlessly into the Lakers’ offense, pairing perfectly with Dončić and LeBron.
- Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers): A 7-foot-2 behemoth who is both an elite scorer and a dominant defensive force, Joel Embiid has long been considered one of the top players in the league. Like Jokić, Embiid brings scoring ability and rebounding, but with more of a traditional post-up style. While the 76ers would be hesitant to move their franchise player, the allure of pairing Embiid with LeBron and Luka Dončić in Los Angeles could make this a compelling option for the Lakers.
- Deandre Ayton (Phoenix Suns): Although not on the same level as Jokić or Embiid, Deandre Ayton is still one of the better young big men in the league. His size, athleticism, and potential as a two-way player make him an intriguing fit for the Lakers. If the Suns are willing to part ways with Ayton, he could be a less expensive option compared to the other elite bigs, while still offering a strong presence in the paint.
- Kristaps Porzingis (Boston Celtics): A 7-foot-3 stretch big who can shoot from anywhere on the floor, Porzingis would provide the Lakers with a different type of offensive threat. His ability to space the floor and stretch the defense would give LeBron and Luka even more room to operate. While Porzingis has had his fair share of injury concerns, when healthy, he’s a player capable of being a key contributor on both ends of the floor.
The Lakers’ Championship Aspirations
The Lakers are clearly in win-now mode, with LeBron James—arguably the greatest player to ever play the game—still playing at a high level. Luka Dončić, meanwhile, is poised to be the future of the franchise, with the potential to be one of the league’s best for the next decade.
By adding a 7-foot-2 All-Star, the Lakers could instantly become one of the most dangerous teams in the NBA. With three superstar-caliber players in James, Dončić, and a new dominant big man, the Lakers would have the depth, talent, and versatility to contend with the likes of the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors for supremacy in the Western Conference.
The offseason is always full of rumors and speculation, but if the Lakers can pull off this high-profile addition, they could be setting themselves up for a championship run for years to come. Only time will tell if the Lakers can make their vision of the ultimate Big 3 a reality—but for now, it’s certainly an exciting prospect for Lakers fans.
