After entering the 2025 NBA Draft with the No. 55 overall pick, the Los Angeles Lakers made an early move on Day 2, trading cash and that selection to the Chicago Bulls for the No. 45 pick. But according to Los Angeles Times reporter Broderick Turner, the Lakers may not be done yet.
“People around the league said the Lakers are trying to put themselves in position to draft center Ryan Kalkbrenner out of Creighton University,” Turner wrote.
Lakers Eye Creighton Big Man Ryan Kalkbrenner After Trading Up in NBA Draft
Support Our Fight To End Fall Weddings
Kalkbrenner, a 7-foot-1 senior with four years of collegiate experience, has become a coveted name in league circles. At 23, he’s older than most prospects, but his skillset could make him an ideal fit for a Lakers team looking to add size, rim protection, and floor-spacing to complement Luka Dončić and LeBron James.
During his final season at Creighton, Kalkbrenner averaged 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game. He shot an efficient 66.3% from the field and a respectable 34.4% from three-point range — showing clear development as a perimeter threat.
The desire to find a rotation-ready center has grown since acquiring Dončić last season. With the salary cap limiting major free agency moves, landing Kalkbrenner in the draft could be a cost-effective solution. His experience, defensive instincts, and growing offensive versatility make him a logical addition.
While it’s unclear whether Kalkbrenner will still be on the board at No. 45, all signs point to the Lakers exploring another trade up to secure their target.