The Los Angeles Lakers are leaving no stone unturned as they look to reshape their roster for the 2026-27 season. With a championship window wide open, the front office is weighing a series of moves, and the Dallas Mavericks have emerged as a potential trade partner. According to NBA insider Jovan Buha, two Dallas players—forward PJ Washington and center Daniel Gafford—are on the Lakers' radar, each bringing a distinct set of strengths and complications.
What would it take to land a Maverick?
During a live Q&A, Buha fielded questions about the feasibility of a deal with Dallas. He suggested that the Lakers could part with young talent and draft capital—specifically mentioning Dalton Knecht, Jarred Vanderbilt, or a bundle of second-round picks—to acquire either Washington or Gafford. However, he was firm about one thing: the Lakers should not sacrifice future first-round picks or compromise their salary cap structure. With Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler anchoring the core, the team needs to keep its books clean for the long haul.
Buha’s caution reflects a broader strategy. The Lakers are not just building for today; they are positioning themselves to make a splash in free agency down the line. That means every trade must be weighed against its impact on future flexibility.
Daniel Gafford: a rim protector with a price tag
Gafford, known for his shot-blocking and energy around the basket, would address the Lakers' need for a defensive anchor. But Buha expressed hesitation, pointing to the financial ripple effects. “If you end up restructuring the roster and Daniel Gafford becomes your fourth highest paid player, yes, you have the center position covered, but you only have a limited amount of money to spend,” he explained. The concern is that Gafford’s contract could eat into the cap space needed to pursue a high-caliber wing earning over $25 million annually—a piece the Lakers covet.
For that reason, Buha said he would not attach future pick swaps to a Gafford deal. The cost, in his view, would be too steep for a player who, while solid, might not be the final piece of the puzzle.
PJ Washington: a seamless fit with red flags
Washington, on the other hand, is seen as a much better tactical fit. A versatile forward who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions, he could slide directly into the starting lineup alongside Doncic and Reaves. His ability to play both forward spots would give the Lakers lineup flexibility they currently lack.
But Buha did not sugarcoat the concerns. Washington reportedly arrived at training camp weighing nearly 260 pounds—about 30 pounds heavier than his media day weight. That kind of conditioning issue raises questions about his commitment and readiness. Additionally, despite Dallas actively shopping him, there hasn’t been a flood of interest from other teams. That lack of a bidding war could be a sign that other franchises see the same red flags.
Buha suggested that the Lakers should not overpay. A maximum offer of two second-round picks and a pick swap would be the ceiling, he said. Anything more would be a gamble.
The Lakers have a history of making bold moves, and this offseason is no different. As they trim their roster to 15 players, the front office is clearly exploring every avenue to maximize their title chances. Whether they pull the trigger on a deal with Dallas remains to be seen, but the groundwork is being laid.
For fans, the prospect of adding a player like Washington is exciting. He’s the kind of piece that could elevate the team from contender to favorite. But the front office’s discipline will be tested. In a league where every dollar counts, the Lakers must balance the urge to win now with the need to stay flexible for the future.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Los Angeles. The Lakers have already made headlines with their new-look roster, and another trade could shake up the Western Conference. Whether it’s Washington, Gafford, or someone else, the Lakers are clearly not done yet.
