The Lakers' 2-for-1 draft target has been revealed! A 2.16-meter center averaging 19+8, could they move up 10 spots to grab him?

On June 27th, Beijing time, notable reporter Shams reported that the Lakers are sending the 55th pick plus cash to acquire the 45th pick from the Bulls. Shams added that the Lakers will move up 10 spots as they target a young talent. Subsequently, Lakers reporter Turner mentioned that league sources indicate the Lakers are trying to create conditions to select Ryan Kalkbrenner, a center from Creighton University.

The 23-year-old Kalkbrenner stands at 2.16 meters, averaging 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game last season, with a shooting percentage of 66.3% and a three-point percentage of 34.4%.

As one of the most efficient interior scorers and technically refined rim protectors in the 2025 draft, Kalkbrenner has become a pillar in the paint with his excellent physique, wingspan, and defensive discipline. As a three-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year, he possesses top-notch timing control, allowing him to consistently alter shots without fouling. His average of 2.7 blocks per game (3.1 blocks in the 2023-24 season) ranks among the best in the NCAA (fifth), showcasing elite rim protection instincts. He exhibits dominance in drop coverage defense, particularly notable for his positioning, communication skills, and patience.

On the offensive end, he understands how to leverage his strengths—finishing well, setting solid screens, and making the right decisions. He has a delicate touch around the rim, stable hands, and is a reliable finishing option in pick-and-roll situations. As a 7-footer, he moves fluidly and actively positions himself during transition plays. He is a reliable threat for alley-oops and excels at positioning for dunks or trailing on fast breaks. His perimeter shooting has improved, with a three-point percentage of 34.4%, indicating potential for outside shooting in pick-and-pop scenarios. He is a high-upside, low-mistake player with a clear understanding of his role and how to elevate his teammates. His average of 8.7 rebounds reflects his toughness in the paint, and as he continues to gain strength during college, his lanky frame is gradually adding muscle, making him more suited for interior battles.

As for Kalkbrenner's shortcomings, his lateral quickness and overall foot speed are only average, raising concerns about his ability to switch defensively or match up against smaller, quicker players in the NBA. As a primarily drop coverage defender, he may struggle to fit into systems that emphasize mobility and switching. He is not an elite jumper or a second-jump athlete, which impacts his ability to recover defensively or contest shots after being pulled out of position.

On the offensive side, he lacks the ability to create his own opportunities, with most of his scoring relying on assists. His face-up game and low-post isolation skills are limited, and he rarely holds the ball or dribbles to score in traffic. Passing and playmaking are not instinctive for him—averaging just 1.1 assists per game in his career. Despite having shooting potential, his low volume of outside attempts and possibly slow release may limit his stability when facing defensive pressure in the NBA. Compared to other bigs with diverse defensive tools, he may be more reliant on a structured system.

However, in ESPN's latest second-round mock draft, Kalkbrenner is projected to be selected at 33, meaning the Lakers' move up to the 45th pick may not be enough to secure this center. Of course, this could also be a "smokescreen" released by the Lakers.