The NBA Finals may have the spotlight, but for the 28 teams already watching from home — including the Los Angeles Lakers — the real action is happening behind closed doors. And according to sources close to the organization, the Lakers’ war room is buzzing with intensity as they zero in on a draft strategy that could reshape their entire future.
With the No. 25 pick in a 2026 draft class that scouts are calling one of the deepest in years, the pressure is on. The Lakers have glaring holes: they need frontcourt muscle, explosive athleticism, and reliable three-point shooting. And after ClutchPoints’ NBA insider Brett Siegel dropped his latest Mock Draft 3.0, insiders say the front office is reportedly torn between several game-changing prospects.
Here’s the updated roundup that has fans and analysts alike wondering — does L.A. have a secret favorite?
Lakers 2026 Mock Draft: The Candidates
No. 25: Isaiah Evans, Duke (SG/SF)
This is the pick that appears to have the most buzz in Siegel’s mock. Evans brings elite size for a wing, a smooth catch-and-shoot stroke (38% from three over two seasons at Duke), and defensive versatility. Sources tell us the Lakers are reportedly salivating at the idea of pairing him with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. “He doesn’t need the ball to be effective,” one scout allegedly said. “That’s exactly what they need.”
No. 25: Chris Cenac Jr., Houston (F)
A high-risk, high-reward gamble. Cenac is raw but oozes athleticism. He moves off the ball like a veteran and projects as a lockdown defender at the four. But insiders warn his development curve could be steep — and the Lakers may not have time to wait.
No. 25: Joshua Jefferson, Iowa State (F)
This is the safe bet, according to league insiders. Jefferson is one of the most NBA-ready prospects in the entire draft. He has the size to guard multiple positions, a high basketball IQ, and a diversified offensive game. One source close to the situation claimed, “If the Lakers want a guy who can step in on Day 1, this is it.”
No. 25: Dailyn Swain, Texas (F)
The new name on the board, and perhaps the most intriguing. Swain is older but ready to contribute immediately. His three-point shooting jumped from under 20% as a freshman to 34.4% as a junior — a trajectory that has front offices taking notice. Reportedly, the Lakers see him as a potential defensive stopper who can also stretch the floor.
What This Means for the Lakers’ Offseason
Here’s where things get dramatic. Unlike previous mock drafts, there’s no consensus on one target. According to insiders, that indecision could be a sign of internal debate — or a smokescreen. The Lakers are reportedly weighing immediate impact against long-term upside, and with LeBron James’ future uncertain, every pick carries enormous weight.
“This draft is a golden opportunity for them,” one NBA analyst told us. “But if they swing and miss, it could set them back for years.”
Fans are already speculating wildly on social media, with some calling for a trade-up and others demanding the team target a specific position. One thing is clear: as the draft approaches, the pressure on L.A.’s front office is mounting — and the clock is ticking.
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