Lakers Taobao? Try two potential rookies, and the second round of signing may become a chance to get a bargain

According to the latest news from American basketball reporter Bill Orell, the Los Angeles Lakers have quietly started draft preparations recently and conducted separate trials for double-sports guard Lamont Butler from the University of Kentucky and University of Connecticut center Samson Johnson. This news attracted attention two weeks before the draft. After all, the Purple Gold Legion, which holds the last signing of No. 55, has always been good at Taobao at low picks.

Butler, 23, was labeled as "Important 3D defender" by scouts. The veteran who has been polished for four years in the NCAA delivered an answer of 11.4 points and 4.3 assists last season. What is even more rare is that he maintained a shooting percentage of 49.8% and a three-point shooting prospect of 39.1%. The 2-meter 01 arm span allows him to be at ease on the defensive end. Scout reports from many teams have specially marked "having the ability to switch to three positions". However, due to the natural disadvantage of an older rookie, it is currently predicted that he may be taken away in the middle and late stages of the second round.

Another trialman, Johnson, showed a completely different trait. The 2.08-meter-long man has an amazing 2.26-meter-26 wingspan. Last season, he contributed 1.5 blocks in just 18 minutes per game, and his frame protection efficiency ranks in the top 20 in the NCAA. Although the offensive data of 7.3 points is not impressive, its 68.9% inside shooting percentage shows efficient finishing ability. Interestingly, this sports inside player did not hold a solid position until his senior season. This "late mature" trait may be exactly what the Lakers like.

According to league insiders, the Lakers management's goal for this trial training is clear - the No. 55 draw must consider both the instant combat power and the upper limit of player development. Scouting director Jesse Bass personally attended the scene to observe, showing how much importance the two rookies were attached to. However, some industry insiders also analyzed that the Lakers may examine potential undrafts during trial training. After all, their experience of successfully signing players such as Reeves and Christie in the past two seasons is an example.

As the draft approaches, whether the Lakers will use this precious second-round final signing, or continue to use magic in the free agent market, the answer is about to be revealed.