Lakers eye offseason upgrades after playoff exit; Kings and Suns host draft workouts; Butler appears at music festival
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Los Angeles — Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said the organization will aggressively seek additional talent following a first-round sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Speaking at last week’s end-of-season press conference, Pelinka pointed to the rapid rise of 2024 second-rounder Ajay Mitchell—who averaged 22.5 points per game against Los Angeles—as proof that value can be found in every corner of the roster.
“There are ways to add to your roster if you commit to doing the hard work,” Pelinka said. “We’ll be doing that through the draft, free agency and trades.”
The Lakers own the No. 25 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft and intend to audition more than 20 prospects. Pelinka said the front office will prioritize depth, athleticism, youth, competitiveness and basketball IQ, adding that player development has become increasingly vital under the league’s current salary structure.
Kings focus on second round
Sacramento opened its pre-draft process Friday with a workout geared toward picks No. 34 and 45. The session included Houston guard Emanuel Sharp, Duke center Maliq Brown, Auburn forward Keyshawn Hall, Louisville guard Isaac McKneely, Grand Canyon wing Jaden Henley and Xavier forward Tre Carroll. All six are projected as late-second-round selections or potential undrafted free agents.
Suns bring in backcourt, wing prospects
Florida State point guard Robert McCray recently worked out for Phoenix, according to Arizona Sports 98.7. Louisville guard Ryan Conwell and St. John’s forward Bryce Hopkins are scheduled to visit the Suns next week.
Butler entertains at BottleRock
Golden State forward Jimmy Butler, rehabbing from ACL reconstruction in February, performed multiple songs onstage Friday at the BottleRock Napa Valley Music Festival. “Don’t show this to Steve,” Butler joked to the crowd, referring to head coach Steve Kerr while acknowledging his injury.
Source: Hoops Rumors
