With NBA free agency set to kick off next week, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly preparing to make strategic moves to bolster their roster—particularly by adding a seasoned big man. Among the potential targets, Brook Lopez has emerged as one of the most realistic and attractive options for the Purple and Gold.
According to Jake Fisher, via Marc Stein’s newsletter published Saturday (June 28), the Lakers have initiated efforts to pursue Lopez, a proven veteran and former 2021 NBA Champion with the Milwaukee Bucks.
“Brook Lopez might be the most accomplished center available this offseason,” Fisher noted. “Twо summers ago, bоth Sаn Antоnіо аnd Houston аggrеѕѕіvеlу сhаѕеd him before Mіlwаukее ultіmаtеlу re-signed him. This time, the Lakers seem serious about bringing him to Los Angeles.”
Lakers Not Alone in Lopez Pursuit
While the Lakers have made their intentions clear, they will face stiff competition. The Golden State Warriors are also reported to be interested in signing Lopez, who was the 10th overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft. This adds another layer of intrigue to an already competitive market for top-tier centers.
“Several teams are preparing to go toe-to-toe with the Lakers in the race for Lopez,” Fisher continued. “They’re all looking to pry him away from Milwaukee, where he’s had a highly successful seven-season run alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo.”
Brook Lopez Set to Become a Free Agent
Lopez is poised to become an unrestricted free agent with his current two-year, $48 million deal with the Bucks set to expire. Now 37 years old, the veteran center remains an impactful presence on both ends of the floor.
Interestingly, Lopez is no stranger to Los Angeles. He played one season for the Lakers in 2017-2018, appearing in 74 games and starting 72 of them. During that campaign, he averaged 13.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game—solid contributions that reflect his value as a rim protector and floor spacer.
In the 2024-25 NBA season, Lopez remained productive for the Bucks, putting up 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists over 80 games—showing that age hasn’t slowed him down much.
Lakers’ Center Conundrum: Exploring All Options
The Lakers’ interest in Lopez is part of a broader effort to reinforce their frontcourt. Aside from targeting free agents, the team has also been exploring trade opportunities. Other names linked to Los Angeles include:
- Walker Kessler (Utah Jazz)
- Nic Claxton (Brooklyn Nets)
- Robert Williams III (Portland Trail Blazers)
- Clint Capela (Atlanta Hawks)
“Even if the Lakers consider a trade for Clint Capela or another less-discussed big man, there’s a growing belief that Brook Lopez will be on the move soon,” Fisher stated. “His time in Milwaukee may be coming to an end after a very successful run.”
A Potential Reunion: Why Lopez Makes Sense for L.A.
Lopez initially joined the Lakers in 2017 via a trade with the Brooklyn Nets that involved Kyle Kuzma. After one season in L.A., he left in free agency and went on to become a core piece of Milwaukee’s championship squad.
Now, with LeBron James still in the mix and the Lakers looking to build a more competitive team around him (and possibly Luka Doncic in future trade dreams), Lopez could be the perfect fit.
Standing at 7 feet tall, Lopez offers elite shot-blocking, spacing from the three-point line, and invaluable postseason experience—traits that are hard to come by in today’s big men market.
The Lakers may not have many ideal options in free agency to fill the void at center, which makes Lopez an even more appealing target. With his championship pedigree, familiarity with the franchise, and continued productivity at an advanced age, a second stint in L.A. could benefit both sides.
As free agency approaches, the Lakers appear to be positioning themselves to make a high-impact signing—and Brook Lopez could be their man. While competition is fierce, L.A.’s desire for experience, size, and leadership might lead to a reunion that reignites their championship aspirations.
Whether Lopez chooses to return to the Lakers or finds a new home, his decision will undoubtedly be one of the key storylines in this summer’s NBA free agency period.
ALSO READ :
