The Los Angeles Lakers are moving up in the 2025 NBA Draft. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Lakers have acquired the No. 45 overall pick from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for the No. 55 pick and cash considerations.
The deal, while modest, carries notable implications. As Spotrac’s Keith Smith pointed out, by sending out cash in the transaction, the Lakers are now hard-capped at the second tax apron for the 2025-26 season. That limits their financial flexibility for the remainder of the offseason—though they were unlikely to cross the second apron threshold anyway.
Los Angeles Lakers Move Up in NBA Draft, Acquire No. 45 Pick from Bulls
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Chicago, meanwhile, had signaled its intent to move the pick. Bulls general manager Marc Eversley told reporters Wednesday night that the team was open to dealing the No. 45 pick or selecting a draft-and-stash prospect. Instead, they found a trade partner in a Lakers front office eager to make a targeted move.
The Lakers entered the draft with only one selection—No. 55—after their first-round pick, once part of the Anthony Davis deal, ended up with the Brooklyn Nets. But general manager Rob Pelinka and his staff have developed a reputation for identifying value in the second round. Recent success stories include Max Christie, Ivica Zubac, and Jordan Clarkson.
Given the decision to move up before the second round began, it’s likely the Lakers have a specific player in mind at No. 45—someone they believe may not have lasted until No. 55. That selection will be made Thursday when the second round continues.