Lakers Eye Trade for Claxton Amid Playoff Struggles

Los Angeles, CA — The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring a trade for Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton as they face elimination in the first round of the playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Currently down 3-1 in the series, the Lakers are in urgent need of a reliable center to strengthen their frontcourt.

The proposed trade, which includes sending Rui Hachimura, Maxi Kleber, and draft picks to the Nets, aims to address the Lakers’ defensive shortcomings and provide a better pick-and-roll partner for star guard Luka Dončić. Claxton’s contributions this season, averaging 10.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks, could offer the rim protection the Lakers desperately require.

According to Ivan White of Sporting News, the trade could transform the Lakers into serious title contenders again. “Claxton wouldn’t suddenly make the Lakers a perfect team, but he could make them a much more complete squad and even a title favorite in 2026,” he stated.

In the current postseason, the Lakers have struggled with their center position after trading Anthony Davis for Dončić. Jaxson Hayes, who filled in, has been inconsistent, prompting head coach JJ Redick to use a small-ball lineup during crucial moments of a recent game.

The Lakers must make this decision carefully, weighing the potential benefits of acquiring Claxton against the loss of future draft capital. If the team wants to maintain competitiveness, securing a solid center like Claxton may be necessary for a long-term solution.

As the playoffs continue, discussions about this possible trade will likely heat up, and all eyes will be on the Lakers’ front office as they seek to improve their championship aspirations.