Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Rob Pelinka, Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for a second-round playoff clash against defending champions the Oklahoma City Thunder.

After advancing past the Houston Rockets in the first round, much of the attention has remained on Luka Doncic and the possibility of his return.

At the same time, there is a growing sense that focus is beginning to shift toward what could be a pivotal offseason for the franchise.

Unlike at the trade deadline, the Lakers are expected to enter the summer with multiple first-round draft picks and significant cap space, placing them in a strong position to pursue roster upgrades.

Lakers Could Pivot to Wing Upgrades Despite Frontcourt Concerns

The center position has been widely identified as a key area of concern, particularly following an inconsistent season from Deandre Ayton.

However, general manager Rob Pelinka may also explore upgrades on the wing.

ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel has reported that the Denver Nuggets could be open to moving Cam Johnson, with the Lakers among the potential suitors.

Johnson is entering the final season of a four-year, $94.5 million contract, which will see him earn $23 million during the 2026-27 campaign.

Across 54 games this season, the 30-year-old averaged 12.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists, while shooting 48.0% from the field and an impressive 43.0% from three-point range on 4.7 attempts per game.

Siegel reports that “teams around the league are always seeking expiring contracts of players making anywhere from $18 million to $25 million in the offseason.”

That market demand could generate interest in Johnson, particularly given his efficiency as a perimeter scorer.

Cam Johnson Drawing Interest as LA Could Weigh Trade Options

The Los Angeles Clippers have also been identified as a potential suitor for Johnson, according to Siegel, with several other teams monitoring the situation.

“Other rumored teams that had previously expressed interest in Johnson when he was with the Nets include the Lakers, Houston Rockets, and Golden State Warriors,” Sigel wrote.

“It is unknown at this time whether any of these three Western Conference teams would be interested in giving up at least one draft pick to their conference counterparts for Johnson on an expiring contract entering the 2026-27 season.”

The Lakers are well positioned to be active in the trade market. By draft night, they are expected to control three tradable first-round picks in 2026, 2031, and 2033.

Those assets could be used to add talent and reshape the roster.

In addition, several contracts are set to come off the books, including LeBron James’ $52.6 million salary, potentially opening up over $50 million in cap space.

ESPN’s Dave McMenamin previously reported that Los Angeles is not expected to pursue another marquee star outside of James, who could still return on a more team-friendly deal.

Instead, the Lakers are likely to prioritize retaining key contributors such as Austin Reaves, Luke Kennard, and backup center Jaxson Hayes, while also exploring cost-controlled additions.

In that context, Johnson could align with the front office’s approach if the right deal presents itself.

Meanwhile, the Nuggets may look to move Johnson as they attempt to retain restricted free agent Peyton Watson, who the Lakers have also been linked to. As well as maintaining financial flexibility following their first-round playoff exit.