The Los Angeles Lakers have made no secret of their biggest offseason priority. Ever since Luka Doncic arrived in Los Angeles, the franchise has been searching for a long-term answer at center, and the 2026 NBA Draft could provide an opportunity to address that need.
Speaking on the Lakers Nation show, Trevor Lane and Bryce Simon broke down several big men who could be available when the Lakers are on the clock with the No. 25 overall pick. While Luka Doncic reportedly prefers the Lakers to land an established ‘A-list’ center such as Jalen Duren or Walker Kessler, both players remain difficult targets due to their restricted free agency status.
That reality could push Los Angeles toward developing a young center through the draft.
1. Jaden Quaintance
One of the most intriguing names discussed was Jaden Quaintance. The 6-foot-10 Kentucky big man possesses elite defensive upside thanks to his 7-foot-5 wingspan and athleticism. As a freshman at Arizona State in 2024-25, Quaintance averaged 9.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 2.6 blocks while earning Big 12 All-Freshman and All-Defensive Team honors.
Unfortunately, a torn ACL cut that season short. He transferred to Kentucky and appeared in only four games during the 2025-26 campaign while recovering from injury. Simon described him as a potential home-run pick, but questioned whether the Lakers can afford to wait on a prospect who may need additional development time.
2. Tarris Reed Jr.
The player Simon appeared most enthusiastic about was UConn center Tarris Reed Jr. Reed enjoyed a breakout senior season in 2025-26, averaging 14.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 2.1 blocks while shooting 62.1% from the field.
Before arriving at UConn, he spent two seasons at Michigan, where he steadily improved from a reserve into a full-time starter. Reed’s combination of strength, rebounding, screening, and rim protection could allow him to contribute immediately as a backup center, making him one of the safer options in the Lakers’ draft range.
3. Henri Veesaar
Another name generating interest is Henri Veesaar. The 7-foot Estonian center developed through Real Madrid’s academy before coming to Arizona and eventually transferring to North Carolina. After averaging 17.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, and shooting 42.6% from three-point range during the 2025-26 season, Veesaar established himself as one of the most skilled stretch bigs in the draft.
While Simon praised his offensive versatility, he questioned whether Veesaar possesses the physicality needed to anchor an NBA frontcourt.
4. Christ Essandoko
Christ Essandoko offers a completely different profile. The 7-foot French center has bounced through multiple college programs, including Saint Joseph’s, Providence, South Carolina, and most recently, Bowling Green. Essandoko’s size and interior presence are attractive, but his production has fluctuated throughout his collegiate career.
Simon views him more as a developmental prospect who may need additional time before becoming a reliable NBA contributor.
5. Zuby Ejiofor
The final prospect discussed was St. John’s standout, Zuby Ejiofor. One of the most productive players in college basketball last season, Ejiofor averaged 16.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and 2.1 blocks while winning Big East Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year honors.
His relentless motor, rebounding, and defensive activity stand out immediately. However, questions remain about whether his offensive game translates cleanly to a modern NBA backup center role.
Ultimately, the Lakers enter the draft searching for frontcourt help. While Duren and Kessler remain ideal targets if a trade becomes possible, Los Angeles may need to find its next center through the draft. Whether it is the upside of Quaintance, the readiness of Reed, the skill set of Veesaar, the size of Essandoko, or the energy of Ejiofor, the Lakers will have several intriguing options available when the 25th pick arrives.
