Lakers Linked to $48 Million Former NBA All-Star in Free Agency originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Los Angeles Lakers have made it clear they’re intent on building their roster around Luka Dončić and LeBron James, after last season’s shortcomings exposed weaknesses in their frontcourt. This desire could spell bad news for the Milwaukee Bucks.
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With their sights set on championship contention, Los Angeles is being linked to several veteran centers, including Atlanta Hawks big man Clint Capela. Additionally, the Lakers appear to have an interest in former NBA All-Star Brooks Lopez.
The veteran just completed a two-year, $48 million contract with the Bucks.
According to insider Jake Fischer, rival teams expect the Lakers to “make a run” at Lopez this summer, with league-wide belief growing that the 37‑year‑old veteran could depart Milwaukee.
Los Angeles Lakers head coach J.J. Reddick signals to players.© Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
“Perhaps the most established center headed for the open market is the ring-winning Brook Lopez,” Fischer wrote on Saturday. “Two summers ago, you’ll recall, both San Antonio and Houston pursued Lopez aggressively before the Bucks successfully convinced him to re-sign.
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“This time around, however, numerous rival teams are bracing for the center-craving Los Angeles Lakers to make a run at luring Lopez away from the Bucks.”
Lopez, who helped the Bucks win an NBA championship in 2021, remains a reliable rim protector and lethal stretch‑five, shooting over 35% from long range.
The Bucks big man fits the Lakers’ mold: a steady, 3-and-D big who can both protect the paint and hit open threes, capably relieving pressure from guards like Dončić and LeBron James.
This is concerning news for the Bucks who are trying to entice Giannis Antetokounmpo not to push for a trade this offseason. Atlanta’s Clint Capela has also emerged as a potential free‑agency target in NBA rumors.
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Milwaukee will be hoping that Los Angeles turns to Capela over Lopez when NBA free agency begins on June 30.
Related: Lakers Predicted to Land $45 Million Big Man
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 29, 2025, where it first appeared.