THE 2024 National Basketball Association (NBA) Draft is rapidly approaching, with each team making their final preparations ahead of adding some young talent to the best competition in the world.

There are some seriously impressive prospects available, with the crop stretching all around the globe as more international players begin to gain recognition. Suddenly, the collegiate system is not the only method to joining the NBA, which has allowed a broader range of players to compete at the top level.

With the NBA wrapping up the 2023/24 season as we speak, the teams already eliminated have spent the past few weeks considering which players they will select to prepare for the future, and the recent Draft Lottery saw the official order determined.

With that in mind, Rookie Me Central will be taking a look at each team and how their draft will potentially pan out on June 26-27. With all 30 sides in their own unique situation, there is plenty to unpack ahead of the next injection of exciting players.

Kicking off the action for the week are the Los Angeles Lakers, who claimed the New Orleans Pelicans’ first pick after the latter opted to move their rights to their first round selection next year.

Los Angeles Lakers

Draft Selections

17

Contracted Players

LeBron James (player option), Anthony Davis (player option), D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves, Gabe Vincent, Jared Vanderbilt, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Christian Wood (player option), Jaxson Hayes (team option), Cam Reddish (team option)

The Lakers are one of the most scrutinised teams in the NBA given how high-profile the team is and the star power they possess, and topping up at the draft will be vital as the team looks to produce long-term, sustained success.

Although they have just one pick, it is within the top 20, so Los Angeles will be able to add a quality young piece that should be able to make an immediate impact at the top level.

The Lakers will be likely looking for a guard with their pick at the draft, and Jared McCain could be an option if available at that time. He would be an excellent fit next to the team’s stars in Davis and James (who may be on the move regardless) with his strength as a shooter and fit as a secondary playmaker, and has already felt the pressure of playing for a big time after a successful stint with Duke at college level.

If the Lakers maintain their ‘win now’ mindset, they could look to find the best fit next to James and Davis regardless of position, and an option here could be Tristan da Silva, who would slot into the rotation nicely. James and Davis have thrived the most when surrounded by shooters, and the Colorado forward knocked down 40 per cent of his three-pointers last season, and has plenty of versatility on the defensive end as well, so he would be an excellent addition for the Lakers.

Keep an eye on this pick in trade talks too, given the Lakers see themselves well and truly in contention and are looking to add a third star.