Mon Jun 30 23:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Doncic Could Finally Get His Man: Capela Rumored to Join Lakers, Intensifying Mavs Rivalry

**Los Angeles, CA -** Despite trading away superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in February, Dallas Mavericks fans have continued to follow his career closely. However, loyalties may be tested as a potential Lakers acquisition of Clint Capela threatens to turn the team into a Western Conference contender and direct rival.

Following the trade of Kristaps Porzingis from the Boston Celtics to the Atlanta Hawks, veteran center Clint Capela has emerged as a potential free agent target for the Lakers. Atlanta may be hesitant to re-sign Capela with Porzingis now in the fold, opening the door for Los Angeles to pursue the big man.

Capela, long admired by Mavericks fans as a potential pick-and-roll partner for Doncic during his tenure in Dallas, could finally be playing alongside the Slovenian superstar, just not in the uniform they hoped for. The Lakers are reportedly seeking to fill their starting center void, and Capela’s rim-running, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities make him an ideal fit.

“Doncic is at his best when he is playing next to a rim-rolling big who can catch lobs,” noted one NBA analyst. “If the Lakers sign Capela, he’s going to be in a prime position to have a bounce-back season.”

While the Mavericks, bolstered by their recent draft lottery win and the selection of Cooper Flagg, currently boast a stronger frontcourt with Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Daniel Gafford, the addition of Capela would significantly improve the Lakers’ presence in the paint.

The prospect of a motivated Doncic, alongside LeBron James, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and potentially Capela, positions the Lakers as a team to watch in the Western Conference.

The potential acquisition of Capela by the Lakers adds a new layer of intrigue to the rivalry between Los Angeles and Dallas. Matchups between the teams are set to become must-see television, pitting Doncic and a revamped Lakers squad against the Mavericks led by the promising rookie Cooper Flagg. While Mavericks fans may continue to hold a special place for Doncic, their unwavering desire for a championship in Dallas will undoubtedly fuel their competitive spirit against their former star.

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