Lakers Expected to Focus on High-Motor Prospect at No. 25 in 2026 NBA Draft
lakers-high-motor-targets-25th-pick-2026-draft
The Los Angeles Lakers appear to be prioritizing an energetic, high-motor player when they exercise the 25th overall selection in the 2026 NBA Draft, according to reporting from The Athletic’s Dan Woike.
Woike noted that clubs rarely uncover immediate starters in the latter portion of the first round, but landing a consistent top-eight rotation piece would be viewed as a success. Based on current draft boards, he reported that the Lakers’ front office is concentrating on either centers or larger wings who consistently play with maximum effort.
Potential options mentioned include Houston center Chris Cenac Jr., Kentucky big man Jayden Quaintance and UConn forward Tarris Reed Jr., provided any of them remain available when Los Angeles is on the clock.
An emphasis on nonstop energy mirrors the impact players such as Jaxson Hayes and Marcus Smart made for the Lakers last season. The organization is intent on surrounding star guard Luka Doncic with teammates who can maintain a high level of intensity throughout their minutes.
While most projections connect Los Angeles to a center, team officials have also evaluated several wings and guards in recent workouts. Stanford forward Ebuka Okorie has headlined those sessions, with Purdue center Oscar Cluff, Kansas State guard Nate Johnson and Georgia Tech wing Kowacie Reeves Jr. also receiving attention.
The 2026 NBA Draft will be held later this month, giving the Lakers limited time to finalize their board before announcing the franchise’s next young addition.
Source: Lakers Nation
