In the NBA offseason, teams face various avenues to enhance their rosters, but the outcomes can be unpredictable.
There are unrestricted free agents.
And then, there are restricted free agents.
Additionally, trades are on the table.
The draft, however, is perhaps the most precarious option, as teams typically look to select younger players, often in their teens or early twenties.
The recent Western Conference finals featuring the Spurs and Thunder highlighted the critical role the draft plays in shaping both short- and long-term success. In today’s NBA, a team’s financial flexibility can be severely impacted, particularly if they finish at certain thresholds.
The Lakers, having experienced disappointing results from their last two first-round picks—Jalen Hood-Schifino left the league, and Dalton Knecht didn’t play much—need to make the No. 25 pick in the upcoming draft count.
So, who might the Lakers consider with that pick?
Jayden Quaintance, Kentucky
Statistics for 2025-26: 5 points, 5 rebounds, 16.8 minutes
Measurements: 6-foot-9 (without shoes), 253 pounds, wingspan 7-foot-5 1/4, standing reach 9-foot-1
Quaintance began his college journey at Arizona State, quickly establishing himself as a versatile defender. Unfortunately, a torn ACL in February 2025 cut his first season short. He made a brief return at Kentucky but played only a handful of minutes due to ongoing knee issues. His medical status will significantly influence his draft position, but his shot-blocking skills, athleticism, and ability to finish could make him a valuable rookie asset.
Taris Reed Jr., College Player
Statistics for 2025-26: 14.7 points, 9 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 2 blocks, 27.3 minutes
Measurements: 6’9 ¾ (without shoes), 263 lbs., wingspan 7’4 1/4, standing reach 9’2
Reed spent two seasons at Michigan and emerged as a starter during his sophomore year. After transferring to UW for his final two seasons, he excelled, leading the Big East in field goal percentage. His strength and scoring ability inside have been notable.
Chris Cenac Jr., Houston Player
Statistics for 2025-26: 9.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, 24.8 minutes
Measurements: 6′ 10 1/4 (without shoes), 239 lbs., wingspan 7’5, standing reach 9’0 1/2
Cenac, a five-star prospect, quickly became a starter for Houston, which finished as the NCAA Tournament runner-up. While his size and athleticism are promising, he may need to build strength before contributing significantly in the NBA.
Zuby Ejiofor, St. John’s Player
Statistics for 2025-26: 16.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.1 blocks, 30 minutes
Measurements: 6-foot-7 1/2 (without shoes), 245 pounds, wingspan 7-foot-2, standing reach 8-foot-11
Ejiofor, originally from Kansas, has spent three seasons with coach Rick Pitino at St. John’s. Despite being somewhat undersized for a big man, he shows great versatility and defensive potential. While his offensive game has weaknesses, his ability to make quick decisions and screen well may allow him to find success.
Allen Graves, Santa Clara Forward
Statistics for 2025-26: 11.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.9 steals, 1.8 assists, 0.9 blocks, 22.6 minutes
Measurements: 6 feet 7 ¾ (without shoes), 225 pounds, wingspan 7 feet, standing reach 8 feet 10 1/2
Graves was named West Coast Conference Freshman of the Year and also received accolades as Sixth Man of the Year. His overall skill set, from shooting to defensive playmaking, compensates for a lack of elite athletic ability, making him a standout prospect.
