Lakers are considered a possible landing spot for the Warriors’ four-time NBA champion, who is valued at $100 million.

The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to enter the upcoming offseason with no shortage of potential free-agent targets, a situation that can be both beneficial and complicated.

On one hand, having a wide pool of available players gives the franchise flexibility and leverage in negotiations. On the other, narrowing down that list to identify the best long-term fits ahead of the 2026–27 campaign may prove challenging. With roster construction playing a crucial role in their championship aspirations, every decision will carry significant weight.

According to The Third Apron’s Yossi Gozlan, the Lakers’ shortlist of possibilities may become even longer. He recently suggested that a four-time NBA champion currently with the Golden State Warriors could emerge as a compelling option for Los Angeles.

Gozlan pointed specifically to veteran forward Draymond Green, whose future in Golden State has become less certain. In a report published Tuesday, Gozlan revealed that the Warriors seriously explored including Green in trade discussions at the most recent deadline.

“This past trade deadline, however, was the first time they seriously entertained trading him,” Gozlan wrote. He noted that Green would have been required as outgoing salary in a potential blockbuster deal involving Giannis Antetokounmpo, though that transaction ultimately never materialized.

While Green remained with Golden State, the mere fact that the organization considered moving him suggests a shift in their long-term outlook. Gozlan also pointed out that the possibility of Green being included in a future trade could influence his next contract situation. If he becomes part of a structured trade rather than entering unrestricted free agency, he could potentially secure a more favorable financial outcome than what the open market alone might provide.

Still, there are growing questions about Green’s on-court trajectory. Though his traditional box score numbers remain relatively consistent, underlying performance indicators tell a different story. For the first time since his sophomore season, the Warriors have not performed better statistically when Green is on the floor. That shift has fueled conversations about whether the franchise should prioritize retaining him as he moves deeper into his 30s.

Despite these concerns, Green’s reputation and résumé continue to command respect across the league. As a four-time champion and defensive anchor during Golden State’s dynasty years, he remains widely regarded as one of the smartest defenders and emotional leaders in modern basketball. His ability to orchestrate defensive schemes, communicate effectively, and elevate teammates on that end of the floor remains highly valued.

This is where the Lakers enter the picture. Gozlan highlighted that Los Angeles possesses available cap space and lacks consistent defensive personnel — two factors that could make Green an intriguing target. The Lakers have often struggled to establish a stable defensive identity in recent seasons, and adding a veteran known for setting a tone on that end could address a glaring need.

Admittedly, Green is no longer the dominant frontcourt presence he once was in the Bay Area. The former Michigan State Spartans standout has seen gradual regression in certain areas, including lateral quickness and overall defensive range. His offensive production has also diminished compared to his peak years, though he has never been primarily valued for scoring.

This season, Green is averaging 8.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game with Golden State. Those numbers reflect a player who continues to contribute across multiple categories, even if he is no longer a statistical standout. His playmaking from the forward position, particularly in half-court sets, remains an asset.

In Los Angeles, Green’s skill set could complement superstar guard Luka Dončić, should the right circumstances align. Dončić thrives with high-IQ teammates capable of facilitating, defending multiple positions, and making winning plays without dominating the ball. Green’s experience and basketball intelligence could help balance lineups built around elite offensive creators.

Of course, any potential move would depend on financial feasibility and mutual interest. The Lakers would need to determine whether Green’s leadership and defensive acumen outweigh concerns about age-related decline. Likewise, Green would have to consider whether joining one of the league’s most historic franchises at this stage of his career aligns with his competitive goals.

If the two sides find common ground, Green could add another chapter to his decorated career by donning the purple and gold in his mid-to-late 30s. For the Lakers, pursuing a battle-tested champion could represent a calculated gamble — one that prioritizes experience and defensive culture as they aim to remain contenders in a competitive Western Conference.

As the offseason approaches, speculation will only intensify. Whether Green ultimately stays with Golden State or explores new horizons, the Lakers appear positioned as a team worth monitoring in the conversation.