The Los Angeles Lakers held their third pre-draft workout. The session included six college players from different schools. The most notable players included forward Matthew Mayer and TCU guard Damion Baugh. The Lakers will continue to evaluate players as they prepare for the 2023 NBA Draft.
NBA Rumors: Lakers Complete Third NBA Draft Workout Amid Chris Paul Chatter
Will the Lakers Pick or Trade?
With more than one pick in this year’s NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers can plan for the present or the future. The question is, will the Lakers use those picks in the draft or trade them to add another star player to the roster?
With the addition of a star player, the Lakers could be a force in the Western Conference. However, if they keep the picks, they can add young, talented players to their roster and build for the future. It remains to be seen which option the Lakers will choose.
The Lakers have less than two weeks left until the NBA draft, so they will have to decide soon. Rob Pelinka and the front office will have to weigh the pros and cons of both options to determine what is best for the team. Whichever option they choose, it will majorly impact the franchise’s future.
Two players who stood out in Thursday’s pre-draft workout were Mayer and Baugh. Both players have impressive skill sets and could be great additions to the team. Ultimately the decision will be up to Pelinka and the front office to decide which option best suits the team’s needs.
Los Angeles Lakers Pre-Draft Targets
The Lakes worked out the following prospects in their third pre-draft group workout.
D’Moi Hodge – Missouri
Caleb McConnell – Rutgers
JT Shumate – Toledo
Logan Johnson – Saint Mary’s
Damion Baugh – TCU
Matthew Mayer – Illinois
At 6’9″ and 225 pounds, Mayer is a versatile forward who can stretch the floor, handle the rock and create his own shot. Wing players who can spot up and shoot are valuable in this league. Mayer’s ability to move without the ball, combined with his size and shooting ability, makes him an ideal rotational player in any team’s system.
On the other hand, Baugh is a 6’4″ crafty guard who can shoot from beyond the arc. In spite of the fact that he is expected to be an undrafted target, the Lakers could land him at a low cost and reap big rewards. While in college Baugh consistently improved his three-point shooting percentage from 26% to 33%.
Lakers’ Potential Free-Agents
The Los Angeles Lakers have recently been mentioned as a potential trade partner in talks for veteran guard Chris Paul. Phoenix is reportedly shopping CP3 on the trade market. Paul’s time with the Suns hasn’t gone as planned. While the 38-year-old has suffered numerous injuries, limiting his playing time on the court. The franchise is now looking to go in a different direction. The team has some tough choices after firing their head coach Monty Williams and bringing in Frank Vogel.
Vogel on Chris Paul
“Obviously there was a misunderstanding yesterday. We did not waive Chris, as was reported,” Vogel said. “But there’s ongoing conversations about all of the options to improve the roster. I’ve personally communicated with Chris and feel strongly about the opportunity to work with him. He’s someone I’ve just had immense respect for over the years.
“I’m really hopeful to have an opportunity to work with him this next year and I think he can really help us get over the top.”
Whatever happens, the Lakers have their eyes on LeBron James’ longtime friend Chris Paul. A player who has always wanted to play for the Lakers and with LeBron James.
