Doncic is a perfect match! It was revealed that the Lakers may introduce Gaford to strengthen the inside line, and the American media posted a three-way trading plan

On May 11, Beijing time, the Lakers' top priority in the offseason is to strengthen the center position, and Mavericks center Gafford is a potential target. He has partnered with Doncic and has excellent chemistry, and his intention to represent Slovenia in the FIBA tournament also makes him willing to renew his relationship with Doncic. American media "Sports Illustrated" posted a three-way trade plan to discuss how the Lakers should trade to get Gafford.

According to Bleachers' Eric Pincus, Knecht is one of the Lakers' main trade chips, while Gafford is seen as a possible trade target for the Lakers this summer. Lakers reporter Buha also pointed out that despite the Lakers' limited salary space this summer, Gafford is indeed a viable center candidate.

"I think Gafford is a great fit for the Los Angeles Lakers," Buha said on his podcast, "and bringing in Gafford is a practical move, and I don't think Gafford is for sale for the Mavericks, and there's room for manoeuvre in this deal." Previously, some media said that the Mavericks want to leave the salary space for the contract extension to the younger and more potential Lively, so Gafford may not be able to stay there for a long time.

The 26-year-old Gafford is known for his excellent aerial threat, which fits perfectly with the Lakers' tactical needs. This season, he played in 51 games for the Mavericks, averaging a career-high 12.3 points per game, along with 6.9 rebounds and 1.9 blocks.

Gafford was interested in representing Slovenia at FIBA, but missed last summer's Olympic qualifying tournament due to the failure to complete the naturalization process in time. With the FIBA Euro 2025 set to take place in the offseason, Gafford and Doncic are expected to further strengthen their relationship by playing together for their country after leaving Dallas.

How did the Lakers get Gafford? The American media "Sports Illustrated" listed a three-way transaction plan -

Eagles get: Najib Marshall

Lakers get: Gafford

The Mavericks get: Vincent, Vanderbilt, Niang, a 2027 second-round pick (from the Hawks), a 2029 second-round pick (from the Hawks) and a 2030 first-round swap (from the Lakers)

Gafford has been in the NBA for six seasons. Since being drafted with the 38th pick in 2019, he has played for the Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards and Dallas Mavericks. In the 372 games he played in his career, he averaged 9.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game. Gafford has one year left on his contract and a salary of $14.38 million for the 2025-26 season.

Would you like to see Doncic and Gafford team up again? Feel free to leave a message to express your opinions.