If the Los Angeles Lakers are eyeing another ring next season, they better build a team around LeBron James.
After the Lakers’ third consecutive exit from the playoffs, LeBron James’ future with the team is still in the mix.
James recently expressed that he doesn’t have a clear timeline for how much longer he will play in the NBA, saying he would consult with his family in making that decision.
Despite his non-committal tone, there is a prevailing belief that he will return for at least one more season with the team. General manager Rob Pelinka also conveyed confidence about James’ future during a press conference. The Lakers GM also discussed the team’s approach for this offseason with the four-time NBA champion.
“I think LeBron is going to have high expectations for the roster, and we are going to do everything we can to meet those,” Pelinka said.
"I think LeBron is going to have high expectations for the roster and we are going to do everything we can to meet those."
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) May 1, 2025
— Lakers GM Rob Pelinka on how the Lakers will approach this offseason with LeBron 👀 pic.twitter.com/jGnHSXatVx
However, it has long been written, reported, and talked up that Los Angeles needs a dependable player at the center. And if the Lakers GM’s words hold any weight, they would surely get someone to fill the gap.
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However, during the regular season, James averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds. He also shot 51.3% from the field and 37.6% from beyond the arc.
This season marked a record 21st All-Star selection for James. The team’s acquisition of Luka Doncic has reportedly alleviated some pressure on him.
As for next season, James has a player option and can decline to pursue a longer contract. Reports indicate he might consider taking a minor pay cut to assist the Lakers in acquiring additional talent through free agency.
Lakers In Search Of A Perfect Center With LeBron James Still In The Mix
While the Lakers do not have a clear answer on LeBron James’ next big step, they can’t deny their lack at the center position.
Despite entering the series as favorites, the Lakers struggled against the Timberwolves’ size and physicality, forcing them into a small-ball strategy that proved ineffective.
Head coach JJ Redick acknowledged the challenges faced without a true center on the court. Following the series, Pelinka also highlighted the need to focus on adding more size to the roster during the offseason.
He noted the difficulty of reshaping the team mid-season after trading their starting center for a point guard. And that created significant roster issues.
“I think when you make huge trade at the deadline where you trade your starting center for a point guard, of course that’s gonna create significant issues with the roster. And we saw some of those play out. We know this offseason, one of our primary goals is going to be add size in our frontcourt at the center position. And that’s gonna just be part of the equation,” the GM said.
Pelinka then added how excited he is to build a roster around Luka Doncic moving forward, while acknowledging that after the trade deadline, it was a bit like trying to build an airplane in the sky.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) May 1, 2025
"When you make a huge trade at the deadline where you trade your starting center…
Discussing the desired traits for a new center. As Pelinka mentioned, a player who can be a vertical and lob threat and also provide defensive protection in the paint would be perfect.
He indicated an openness to various types of centers that could effectively contribute to the team.
