Lakers predicted to go all-in for $200M All-Star shot blocker, perfect Luka Doncic lob threat

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Lakers predicted to go all-in for $200M All-Star shot blocker, perfect Luka Doncic lob threat originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Lakers know that Luka Dončić is at his best when he has an athletic, high-flying big man alongside him. Backup center Jaxson Hayes is already planning to spend the entire summer working with Dončić to build a stronger connection.

“Hayes is originally from Oklahoma, and given the talent on the Team USA, he was unlikely to ever get a chance to compete at the Olympic level, making this an incredible opportunity. From a bigger picture perspective, Hayes getting his Slovenian passport to team up with Luka may have just secured his Lakers future,” Lake Show Life’s Chris Lambert wrote.

Still, the Lakers could pursue a big-name center this offseason. One name to watch is Jalen Duren of the Detroit Pistons.

“Duren would take up a lot of the Lakers' newfound cap space, but he's one of the few players who -- if available -- would be worth it. At just 22 years old, Duren would give LA an All-Star-caliber center for the remainder of Luka's career. Duren has averaged 68.75 regular-season games played over his first four seasons in the NBA -- there aren't any durability concerns there. And again, based on his age, one can assume that Duren hasn't approached his ceiling yet. Guys like Luka and Austin Reaves (and LeBron James, if he comes back!) would no doubt make Duren a better offensive weapon by getting him easy bucket after easy bucket,” Lake Show Life’s Colin Keane wrote.

Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report believes Duren is in line for a massive payday this offseason—around $200 million.

“Prediction: The Pistons re-sign Duren to a five-year, $200 million deal,” Buckley wrote.

While $200 million is a hefty price, the Lakers could have the cap flexibility next summer or explore a sign-and-trade scenario. LA is in a strong position, and pursuing Duren would make a lot of sense.

If Dončić has a healthy, athletic big man running alongside him, it adds another dynamic to this Lakers team. Landing Duren would be a major boost, and if the opportunity presents itself, the Lakers could very well go all-in.

More NBA news:

• Lakers' Deandre Ayton reveals LeBron James, JJ Redick's stern playoff message vs. Rockets​

• Lakers predicted to trade for $90M All-Star rim protector as perfect Luka Doncic lob partner​

• Lakers' LeBron James gives ultimate nod of approval for re-signing $10.5M former DPOY​

• Lakers' $30M diamond in the rough expected to re-sign after committing to summer with Luka Doncic​

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