The Los Angeles Lakers are navigating the 2025 NBA offseason with precision, and their front office — led by general manager Rob Pelinka — appears to be executing a calculated strategy to strengthen the roster while maintaining crucial financial flexibility. With the core of the team featuring LeBron James and Luka Dončić already in place, the Lakers are now turning their focus to rounding out the depth chart with impactful role players — and they’re doing so without jeopardizing future cap maneuverability.
After dividing their full Mid-Level Exception (MLE) of $14.1 million between two promising acquisitions — Jake LaRavia ($6 million) and Deandre Ayton ($8.1 million) — the Lakers still have access to their full Bi-Annual Exception (BAE) valued at $5.1 million. This gives the team an opportunity to further bolster the roster either via the free agency market or through strategic trades.
Ayton’s arrival in Los Angeles has already made headlines. The former No. 1 overall pick brings much-needed size and presence to the Lakers’ frontcourt, especially alongside Anthony Davis. Though Ayton came at a modest cap hit, the impact of his addition could be substantial in giving the Lakers more flexibility in their big-man rotations. LaRavia, on the other hand, is a young wing with untapped upside and a skillset that could flourish in a more defined role, especially surrounded by elite playmakers.
But what’s truly impressive is how Pelinka has maneuvered through these acquisitions without exhausting all of the team’s resources. With $5.1 million remaining via the BAE, the Lakers are well-positioned to make at least one more significant move — and they have several options on the table.
One possibility is the addition of veteran big man Al Horford through free agency. Though in the twilight of his career, Horford’s leadership, shooting touch, and defensive instincts make him an ideal bench piece for a contender. If the Lakers want to prioritize playoff experience and basketball IQ, Horford could be a seamless fit.
Alternatively, the trade market offers intriguing possibilities as well. One name that continues to surface is Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards, who could be acquired to provide energy, rebounding, and rim protection. With the Lakers still operating below the first tax apron — approximately $5.6 million below it, to be exact — they have the wiggle room needed to explore such options without crossing into luxury tax penalties or hard cap restrictions.
Currently, Los Angeles has 11 players on guaranteed contracts and two additional players with partial or non-guaranteed deals. This leaves just enough flexibility to make roster tweaks based on training camp performances or trade opportunities that may arise in the coming weeks.
It’s clear that Rob Pelinka played the waiting game with intention. By allowing Deandre Ayton to clear waivers before making his move, Pelinka preserved valuable cap space while securing a high-upside center on a team-friendly deal. Now, with resources like the BAE still in hand, the Lakers are in an enviable position to continue shaping a roster capable of contending deep into the postseason.
As the offseason progresses, expect the Lakers to stay active — and strategic — as they look to complete what could be one of the savviest summers in recent franchise history.
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