March 28, 2025
The Los Angeles Lakers have officially signed Clint Capela, securing a much-needed starting-caliber center to strengthen their frontcourt. Following weeks of speculation, the former Atlanta Hawks big man has agreed to a multi-year deal with the Lakers, taking a significant pay cut to join the championship-contending squad.
Lakers Land Their Rim-Running Anchor
Capela, 31, was identified as a top target for the Lakers, who needed a defensive-minded big to complement Luka Dončić and Anthony Davis. With his elite rebounding and shot-blocking ability, Capela provides an interior presence that the Lakers had been missing.
The deal, reportedly in the range of $8-12 million per year, is a massive discount from his previous $22.3 million salary, allowing the Lakers to make other roster moves while securing a proven defensive anchor.
Pelinka Delivers Yet Another Key Move
Lakers GM Rob Pelinka has once again made a strategic move to enhance the team’s title chances. After landing Luka Dončić in a blockbuster trade, Pelinka’s focus shifted to adding a reliable center without depleting the team’s assets.
“Clint brings exactly what we need—experience, defensive intensity, and an ability to dominate the glass,” Pelinka said in a statement. “We believe his presence will elevate our team as we push for another championship.”
How Capela Fits Into the Lakers’ System
Capela is expected to slide into the starting lineup, providing:
Elite rebounding—one of the league’s best offensive rebounders.
Shot-blocking—a defensive anchor to protect the rim.
Pick-and-roll efficiency—a perfect lob threat for Dončić’s playmaking.
Last season, Capela averaged 8.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game while playing limited minutes in Atlanta’s crowded rotation. Now in L.A., he is set for an expanded role, potentially returning to the dominant form he displayed earlier in his career.
Lakers’ Offseason Focus Shifts to Depth
With Capela now locked in, the Lakers will shift their focus to bolstering their bench and perimeter shooting. The team still has cap space to make one more key signing while retaining its core players.
Lakers fans can now breathe a sigh of relief as the team secures its missing piece ahead of a highly anticipated season. With LeBron James, Dončić, Davis, and now Capela, Los Angeles is once again primed to compete for a championship.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Lakers finalize their offseason roster moves.
