Claxton can play both ways, protecting the rim in a way the Lakers desperately need with Anthony Davis gone and creating a lob threat for Doncic. He will also offer L.A. a $21 million expiring contract in 2027-28 that will provide roster flexibility shortly after what the team hopes will be the inking of a long-term extension for Doncic.

After a week of waiting, Luka Dončić — the perennial MVP candidate and intercontinental superstar, the five-time First-Team All-NBA 25-year-old — takes the floor for the Los Angeles Lakers. L.A. hosts the flailing and tuneless Utah Jazz.