The Mavericks stand ready to move Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford this summer. That availability opens a direct path for the Lakers to address needs in perimeter spacing, post scoring and interior defense through targeted discussions.

Thompson will enter the final season of his contract valued at $17.5 million in 2026-27. At age 36 he shot 38.3 percent from three-point range. Those numbers could help the Lakers, who finished the season at 35.9 percent from deep. Thompson's shooting remains a plus even as his help defense has declined and opponents attack the paint more often.

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Washington produced 14.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.1 blocks and 1.0 steals per game across 56 contests. He operated effectively as a low- and mid-post scorer while maintaining versatile defense in his seventh season. That blend of physical post presence and switchability would strengthen the Lakers' frontcourt rotation and give the team another reliable two-way forward.

Gafford delivered 9.5 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.3 blocks while shooting 65.5 percent from the field. He has now cleared 60 percent on field goals in seven consecutive seasons. His vertical spacing and rim protection would allow Lakers guards to pressure the perimeter more aggressively. The center would also supply Luka Doncic with the attentive pick-and-roll lob threat that has been missing since the superstar arrived in Los Angeles.

Among the three veterans, Gafford presents the clearest on-court fit for the Lakers' current construction. His interior defense and finishing ability complement the perimeter-oriented roster pieces already in place. Washington adds the physicality and defensive versatility that could stabilize the frontcourt. Thompson supplies the three-point volume that directly targets Los Angeles' shortfall from beyond the arc.

These additions would align with the Lakers' broader need for a high-usage perimeter option, a low-post weapon and a stretch four. The front office has demonstrated willingness to reshape the supporting cast around Doncic after his midseason arrival. Bringing in proven veterans with complementary skills would continue that approach without requiring a full roster teardown. Dallas holds the ninth pick in the draft and could use any outgoing deals to adjust its timeline around Kyrie Irving or an incoming rookie selection. The Lakers now face a clear window before free agency to evaluate whether to pursue the full package or prioritize Gafford as the highest-upside individual target.