Nickeil Alexander-Walker could be considered the Lakers' perfect match for Luka Doncic. The Timberwolves wing is about to hit free agency this summer, and this addition could be exactly what the Lakers need to elevate their championship hopes in the new era.
The Los Angeles Lakers will enter the offseason with one clear priority: they need a center.
While it's clear that the Lakers came out as big winners in the Lakers-Mavs trade, nothing is perfect, and the team currently lacks stronger options at the center position.
Jaxson Hayes has been doing a solid job, and with a roster full of versatile wings that can switch and rotate well, the Lakers' defense has not suffered yet.
However, in the stacked Western Conference, with top-tier centers across the league, the Lakers could be at a disadvantage in the playoffs.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker: A Low-Key Free Agent Gem for the Lakers
If the Lakers want to do more than just patch holes and position themselves to compete in a new era led by Luka Doncic, there's another roster hole that deserves attention.
That's where a player like Nickeil Alexander-Walker comes into the picture, who is easily one of the best NBA free agents in 2025.
While the Lakers' hunt for a center will grab the headlines, they quietly need someone who can balance their perimeter defense and bring versatile shot-making, especially next to Luka.
Because as elite as Doncic is, he will need a specific kind of help: defenders who can clean up mistakes, hit open shots, and thrive off-ball.
And Alexander-Walker checks all those boxes.
NAW’s Defensive Versatility Makes Him a Perfect Fit
He's not a star, but he doesn't have to be. What he brings is the kind of role-player value that's crucial on winning teams.
His defensive versatility stands out – he can guard both guard spots and even hold his own against wings. He plays hard, communicates well, and competes every possession.
On the offensive side, his shooting has also been noteworthy. Averaging 1.7 made three-pointers on 4.5 attempts per game, with a 38.7% conversion rate, he's proven his ability to space the floor and provide a consistent outside threat.
That reliability from behind the arc is essential in an offense orchestrated around Luka, who attracts heavy defensive attention with his drive and kick game.
Timberwolves Cap Situation Could Make Nickeil Alexander-Walker Available
And looking at Minnesota's situation, there's a real chance Alexander-Walker becomes available for the Lakers.
If the Wolves want to keep Naz Reid, they'll need to pay him and likely increase his role moving forward.
That could mean letting go of other valuable pieces, especially a player like Alexander-Walker, who might not be at the top of their priority list but would be a steal for a team like the Lakers.
That's the opportunity they should be ready to pounce on.
Not every move needs to be flashy.
Some of the most important signings in recent championship runs have been guys who fit next to stars, especially players who can defend at the point of attack and knock down open shots.
Alexander-Walker fits that mold. He wouldn't just complement Luka Doncic – he'd elevate him.
The Lakers have big decisions to make this summer. A center is the obvious move. B
ut quietly targeting someone like Nickeil Alexander-Walker could be the kind of smart addition that pays off in the biggest moments – especially now that they're building around Luka Doncic in purple and gold.
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