The Los Angeles Lakers have one of the biggest storylines of the NBA offseason surrounding LeBron James and his contract situation, but the franchise appears to have another item at the very top of its to-do list.

According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Lakers' primary focus isn't on James' future. Instead, the organization is prioritizing the search for a starting-caliber center, with any decisions regarding James taking a back seat for the time being.

The report reinforces what has become increasingly evident since L.A.'s season came to an end. While the Lakers boast one of the league's most talented duos in Luka Dončić and James, their lack of size in the frontcourt proved to be one of their biggest weaknesses throughout the season and into the playoffs.

Finding a reliable center has since become the front office's top priority.

Deandre Ayton outplayed his contract last season, being the Lakers' starting center, but his inconsistency as an offensive threat and rim protector showed they are in need of an upgrade at that position.

Ayton's inconsistencies at times led to benching and a change to their front court throughout the season, including the playoffs. 

The Lakers were often forced to rely on smaller lineups, leaving them vulnerable against teams with dominant centers. Whether it was giving up second-chance opportunities, struggling to defend the paint, or lacking a reliable lob threat on offense, the absence of a true center became impossible to ignore.

With those concerns in mind, Fischer reported that the organization is focused on addressing the position before turning its attention to James' contract situation.

That doesn't necessarily mean James' future is in question.

The four-time NBA champion remains under contract, and there has been little indication that negotiations have become a pressing issue for either side. Instead, the Lakers appear to believe improving the roster around Austin Reaves and Dončić is the more immediate priority.

Building a stronger supporting cast could ultimately put the franchise in a better position, regardless of what happens with James in the coming years.

Adding a quality center would not only strengthen the Lakers defensively but also create a better fit alongside Dončić, whose playmaking has consistently elevated athletic rim-running big men throughout his career.

With free agency underway and trade discussions expected to intensify, the Lakers are expected to remain active in exploring every avenue to upgrade the position and build around Dončić.

While speculation surrounding James will continue to dominate headlines, Fischer's report suggests the organization's focus remains elsewhere.

Before anything else, the Lakers want to solve the biggest weakness on their roster.

If they can successfully add the right center, it could go a long way toward putting L.A. back into the championship conversation next season. But AYton could just end up returning and opt into his $8 million player option.