The Los Angeles Lakers are in win-now mode, driven by the urgency to maximize their championship potential as LeBron James approaches the twilight of his illustrious career. Given this context, it is likely that the Lakers package their 2024 draft pick to acquire a player who can contribute immediately. However, if they choose to keep the pick, targeting an older, NBA-ready prospect would be a prudent strategy to provide immediate support. The Lakers have specific needs on the wing, particularly for defenders and shooters, as well as a big-bodied center. They could also consider a point guard if D’Angelo Russell opts out, which would leave them with Gabe Vincent and Jalen Hood-Schifino as their primary options at point guard, with LeBron and Austin Reaves able to handle the duties as well. Here are three prospects the Lakers might target in the 2024 draft:
1. Baylor Scheierman, G/F, Creighton Bluejays
Projected Range: Late first round
Baylor Scheierman is one of the fastest-rising prospects in recent weeks and could be an intriguing fit for the Lakers. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 202 pounds with a 6’8″ wingspan, Scheierman has the size to play both the shooting guard and small forward positions. Despite questions about his length for a small forward, his style of play offsets some of those concerns.
Scheierman is a proven shooter, boasting a career 39.0% from beyond the arc and 82.0% at the free-throw line. In his most recent season, he shot 38.1% from three-point range (on over 8 attempts per game) and 87.6% from the free-throw line, making him a reliable perimeter threat. Additionally, Scheierman is a skilled passer, adding valuable secondary playmaking to his repertoire. If he begins his NBA career coming off the bench, his shooting and playmaking could make him a valuable contributor to the Lakers’ rotation.
2. Ron Holland, F, G League Ignite
Projected Range: Mid to late first round
Ron Holland, a forward for the G League Ignite, is another prospect who could fit well with the Lakers. A consensus five-star recruit, Holland was ranked as the No. 2 player in the Class of 2023. At 6’8″ and known for his athleticism and defensive prowess, Holland averaged 20.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game in the G League.
Holland’s ability to defend multiple positions and contribute offensively makes him an attractive option for the Lakers. His versatility on the wing, combined with his experience playing against older, more physically developed competition in the G League, suggests he could transition smoothly to the NBA and provide immediate help on both ends of the floor. While Holland has not proven to be a good shooter, he is the type of high-upside prospect the Lakers may take as they look to a future without Lebron James.
3. Zach Edey, C, Purdue Boilermakers
Projected Range: Late first to early second round
Zach Edey, the 7’4″ center from Purdue, could address the Lakers’ need for a big-bodied center. Edey, who weighs 300 pounds and has a wingspan of nearly 7’11”, was a dominant force in college basketball, earning back-to-back National Player of the Year honors. Last season, he averaged 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game while shooting 62.3% from the field.
Edey’s size and skill set make him a formidable presence in the paint. He possesses excellent footwork, a soft touch around the rim, and is a solid rim protector and rebounder. While his lack of athleticism and foot speed could be a concern, especially in defending perimeter players, Edey’s ability to anchor the defense and provide a low-post scoring option makes him a valuable prospect. For the Lakers, who struggled with their bigs when Anthony Davis was off the court, Edey could provide much-needed size and interior defense.
By targeting experienced and NBA-ready prospects like Scheierman, Holland, and Edey, the Lakers can bolster their roster with players who can contribute immediately while maintaining their focus on winning now. Whether they keep the pick or trade it for a proven player, the Lakers’ strategy will be crucial in maximizing their championship aspirations in the final chapters of LeBron James’ career.