Los Angeles Lakers insider Dan Woike believes the team is unlikely to make any further roster moves before training camp begins, despite fan speculation about potential trades. Responding to a question regarding the possibility of dealing expiring contracts like Maxi Kleber’s or Gabe Vincent’s to free up space for a veteran such as Kevin Love, Woike explained that it comes down to a straightforward cost-benefit analysis.
“I don’t think another move is coming for the Lakers before the season starts, and really, it’s just a simple cost-benefit analysis of making one. The Lakers have two tradable draft picks as of now, one first, one second and some low-value swaps because, well, any team with Doncic on it has a pretty high floor.”
“To create a roster spot to sign a remaining free agent, you’re spending at least one second and losing a veteran who you believe to some degree can help (or who can make as big of a difference compared to whatever player is still uncommitted here in August).”
“As far as trades go, while talks could pick back up as training camp gets closer, I believe it’s way more likely that the Lakers would rather look at the roster that they’ve built, assess the strengths and weaknesses and try to improve during the season than use any of their limited draft arsenal to get a deal done now.”
With only two tradable draft picks, one first-rounder, one second-rounder, plus some low-value swaps, the Lakers are hesitant to burn assets this early. Any trade now would mean parting with a veteran they think can contribute for someone who might not make a significant upgrade.
Woike also noted that while trade talks could heat up closer to training camp, the front office appears more inclined to evaluate the current roster in action and make adjustments during the season rather than forcing a move in August. This approach aligns with the Lakers’ larger strategy of preserving flexibility.
The team has notably resisted including Jarred Vanderbilt or Gabe Vincent in trade packages despite offers, showing they are not desperate to shake things up. One hypothetical scenario raised by Lakers insider Jason Timpf is a deal for Andrew Wiggins, which he believes could elevate Los Angeles into top-tier contender status.
The Lakers have already had a busy offseason, bringing in Jake LaRavia, Marcus Smart, and Deandre Ayton while also signing Luka Doncic to a three-year, $165 million extension, setting the stage for a potential $417 million mega-deal in 2028.
The acquisition of Ayton addressed their pressing need for a starting-caliber center, and they also re-signed Jaxson Hayes. Still, some believe a veteran backup center could help stabilize the rotation, but the front office seems content to wait.
Financially, the Lakers are keeping their cap sheet clean for the summer of 2026, when they could have over $100 million in space. That’s when both LeBron James’ and Austin Reaves’ contracts come off the books.
Reaves is expected to decline his 2026-27 player option and seek a deal worth around $30 million annually, while LeBron entering his 23rd season, remains undecided about whether he will keep playing or stay with Los Angeles beyond that point.
For now, the message is clear: the Lakers will head into training camp with the roster they’ve built. Any significant trade or signing is likely on hold until they get a better sense of their needs once the season is underway.
While this measured approach might frustrate fans hoping for a splashy move, the organization seems confident that patience, combined with their current roster core, will put them in a strong position for both this season and their long-term goals.
