The Lakers could target a rim-running center like UConn’s Tarris Reed with their No. 25 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft to strengthen their frontcourt and pick-and-roll offense.
The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly again in need of a big man this offseason, and their No. 25 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft could be used to address that need.
Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints recently linked the Lakers to UConn center Tarris Reed.
Reed, 22, began his college career at Michigan in 2022 before entering the transfer portal and moving to UConn. Last season, he averaged 14.7 points and 9.0 rebounds across 35 games.
The Lakers are reportedly targeting a rim-running center who can thrive in pick-and-roll situations, aiming to replicate the type of interior partnership Luka Doncic previously had in Dallas with Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford.
“The Lakers would be drafting him here for his above-the-rim skills and lob-threat abilities,” Siegel wrote.
Several teams holding late first-round picks, as well as nearly all franchises with early second-round selections, are also showing interest in Reed, according to Siegel.
It is also worth noting that Reed shares an agent with Austin Reaves, who is set to become one of the top unrestricted free agents this summer.
Earlier reports had the Lakers projected to use the 25th pick on North Carolina center Henri Veesaar.
Last year, the Lakers selected wing Adou Thiero with the 36th overall pick.
The 2026 NBA Draft is scheduled for June 23-24.
