He is 2.08 meters tall and has an average of 1.5 blocks per game in the season. Will he become the new answer to the Lakers center position?

Before the first round of the playoffs, almost everyone was optimistic that the Lakers would advance easily, but when they really started playing, everyone realized how serious the Lakers' inside problems were (Gobert, Reed and Randle did not encounter any challenges after five games). After being eliminated by the Timberwolves, the well-known Lakers executive Pelinka said in an interview that the team will try every means to strengthen the inside line this summer. In addition to the free trading market, the NBA draft is also an important way for the team to strengthen the inside line.

The source comes from NBA reporter Bill Rear. The Lakers, who hold the 2025 second round No. 55 draw, recently tried out the University of Connecticut center Samson Johnson.

It is understood that Samson is 2.08 meters tall and has an arm span of 2.26 meters. He averages 7.3 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game this season, and has a shooting percentage of 76%.

In terms of technical characteristics, Samson is a typical insider with few independent attack methods and no three-point shooting range. On the defensive end, Samson was able to complete certain frame protection tasks with excellent physical fitness.

It is worth mentioning that Samson has attracted the attention of many NBA teams, and both the Jazz and the Bucks have arranged trials for him.

If the Lakers want to get this potential center, it is best to exchange for a draft pick with the top pick first, because the No. 55 pick in the second round is too far behind and there is no decent player at all.