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- The Los Angeles Lakers eye Purdue center Zach Edey in the 2024 NBA Draft.
- Edey, a 7’3″ standout, averaged 25.2 points and 12.2 rebounds last season.
- His strengths include paint dominance and rim protection; weaknesses are athleticism and perimeter defense.
- Edey could provide the Lakers with much-needed size and rebounding off the bench.
Scouting Lakers’ Draft Prospect: Purdue’s Towering Center Zach Edey
As the 2024 NBA Draft approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers are considering Purdue’s towering center Zach Edey to bolster their roster. Holding the No. 17 and 55 overall picks, the Lakers are likely to keep their selections, with Edey being a prominent prospect linked to the team.
Edey, who stands at an imposing 7’3.75″ with a 7’10.75″ wingspan, has been a dominant force in college basketball, earning back-to-back National Player of the Year honors. Last season, he impressed with averages of 25.2 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, showcasing his ability to control the paint and protect the rim effectively.
While Edey’s size and skill set make him a formidable presence in the post, concerns about his athleticism and foot speed raise questions about his defensive capabilities on the perimeter—a critical aspect of the modern NBA game. Despite these concerns, Edey’s potential as a reserve for the Lakers could provide the team with a significant advantage in size, rebounding, and rim protection when Anthony Davis is off the court.
The Lakers’ decision will hinge on whether Edey’s strengths can outweigh his weaknesses in an era where agility and speed are highly valued. As the draft nears, the Lakers must evaluate if Edey’s college success can translate to the professional level and if he can adapt to the fast-paced NBA environment.
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