The Los Angeles Lakers remain tied to centers ahead of this year’s draft, but recent mocks have them addressing another critical need: 3-and-D forwards. With a chunk of their frontcourt destined for free agency, could a first-round flyer be the right move?
2026 Mock Draft Links Lakers to Santa Clara Forward
Sports Illustrated Mock Draft: Lakers Select Allen Graves
In a Mar. 22 mock draft for Indiana Pacers on SI, writer Alex Golden connected the Lakers to Santa Clara’s Allen Graves, a first-year forward with solid two-way potential:
“While upgrading the center position remains a priority, that need could also be addressed in free agency. At No. 25, landing a polished wing like Graves would be a strong value pick. The 6-foot-9 forward shot an efficient 51.7% from the field and 41.6% from three on limited volume, showcasing his skill and feel for the game. Though not an elite athlete, his size, strength, and basketball IQ help compensate. Defensively, he displays strong awareness, and his well-rounded game should translate to the NBA, even if initially in a limited role.”
Graves put up 11.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.9 steals and 1.8 assists per game for the Broncos, who fell to Kentucky in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. A 6’9”, 225-pound power forward, he scores off of jump hooks and floaters in the post while occasionally stepping out for catch-and-shoot threes. As Golden noted, Graves is active and engaged on defense, which should help a Laker team that’s improved on that end. Graves could also fit right in as a play connector. He has a knack for making reads in the post and eluding double-teams with his court vision.
Free Agency Affects Lakers’ Frontcourt Depth
The Lakers’ forward depth could take a big hit this summer when LeBron James and Rui Hachimura enter free agency (Maxi Kleber, another free-agent four, is often considered a third-string center). As such, while center depth is an understandable priority—with Jaxson Hayes’ free agency and Deandre Ayton’s player option—the Lakers will likely cast a wide net when finding frontcourt help, regardless of whether their big names return next season.
Since they could not land a “two-way wing with size” at the trade deadline, this year’s draft class offers hope for redemption. Players like Graves prove that.
The Adou Thiero Dilemma
If the Lakers draft another forward in the first round, it’ll be worth monitoring what that means for Adou Thiero’s development. The 6’7” combo forward has had limited opportunities with the Lakers, largely due to his status in the pecking order and recovery from several injuries. Head coach JJ Redick said this season is a “development year” for Thiero. However, he has started to prove himself as an athletic 3-and-D wing who deserves to crack the rotation. That opportunity could come next season depending on how this summer goes.
Having Thiero shouldn’t stop the Lakers from drafting someone else at his position. If they do, LA should be mindful of how both young forwards can grow in tandem and eventually contribute to the Lakers’ next era.
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