Lakers Eye Naz Reid as Center of Future Amid Trade Rumors

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Los Angeles Lakers have positioned themselves as the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference, boasting a 35-21 record following a recent 107-99 victory against the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday night. Despite their current three-game win streak, the Lakers’ general manager, Rob Pelinka, is already considering potential offseason moves to address the team’s center depth.

The Lakers faced a setback in their frontcourt after trading Anthony Davis to Dallas in a blockbuster deal for Luka Dončić prior to the February 6 trade deadline. Reports indicate Pelinka is eyeing Naz Reid of the Minnesota Timberwolves as a potential key addition during the summer.

Reid, who is poised to decline his player option for the 2025-26 season, has emerged as one of the most effective offensive players at his position this season. He is averaging a career-high 14.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists with an impressive 60.1% true shooting percentage.

“The wheels have certainly not fallen off with Jaxson Hayes starting. However, the sixth-year pro is far from the long-term answer at the position,” wrote Svyatoslav Rovenchuk of FanSided. “What about Naz Reid?”

With the current pool of available free agent centers being somewhat limited, Reid stands out as a strong candidate for the Lakers, alongside the likes of Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers.

Reid’s performance this season has seen a boost due to expanded minutes following the departure of superstar center Karl-Anthony Towns, who was traded to the New York Knicks in the offseason. His ability to score efficiently off the bench has made him an asset for the Timberwolves.

A potential acquisition of Reid by the Lakers could enhance their offensive capabilities, although financial constraints could pose a challenge. His decision to seek higher annual pay following the decline of his player option complicates matters for Los Angeles.

If the Lakers can facilitate a deal with Reid, it may hinge on his desire to compete alongside elite talents such as Dončić and LeBron James, both of whom could elevate his game even further.