NBA Draft: Lakers’ Smartest Sleeper Picks to Add Size Up Front

Mar 12, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers majority owner Mark Walter and team executive Jeannie Buss in attendance at Crypto.com Arena © Imagn ImagesThe Los Angeles Lakers have not had much luck in drafts in recent years, but the team is looking to capitalize on its 25th pick this season. The 2026 NBA Draft class is touted to be one of the most talented groups of rookies in the last few years.

The Lakers did not have a first-round pick last season, and in 2024, they acquired Dalton Knecht, who has had a tumultuous run thus far.The Lakers will go this year with the hope of getting something good out of a very late first-rounder. While the front office explores options to trade the pick in a package, they certainly have some options to bolster their frontcourt.

Let’s explore some options for the Lakers who can go under the radar on D-day.#1. Chris Cenac Jr.

The Lakers have really struggled when it comes to defensive tenacity, as the team finished ranked exactly in the middle of the league in defensive rating (116.4) in the 2025-26 season. Moreover, with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves handling the ball on top, the team needs some explosive frontcourt pieces who can make cuts and finish on the rim.

Houston’s 6-foot-10 two-way wing can be an instant addition to both of the aforementioned areas. Chris Cenac Jr. averaged 9.

5 points, shooting 48.5% from the field and 33.3% from deep.

However, his numbers don’t do justice to what he brings on the defensive ends of the floor.Using his 7-foot-5 wing size, the forward can stick to fast guards and close them out with his size. Moreover, he averaged 7.

9 rebounds in the 2025-26 NCAA season, proving his alertness in the paint.#2. Tarris Reed Jr.

Tarris Reed Jr. has shown massive growth this year, averaging 14.7 points and 9.

0 rebounds for the UConn Huskies. He shot 60.7% from the field, but doesn’t take deep shots.

However, he can get to the rim in pick-and-rolls and uses his wingspan to defend players over his siz