Round 1 of the 2025 NBA draft was on Wednesday, as 30 promising prospects found out where their professional careers will begin. Several teams left the opening round without adding a fresh face, including the Los Angeles Lakers, whose first-round pick was moved to the New Orleans Pelicans as a part of the Anthony Davis trade six years ago.
The Lakers aren't without a draft pick, though, as they still hold this year's 55th overall selection. At least, that was the case until Thursday morning. NBA insider Shams Charania is reporting that Los Angeles has acquired the 45th overall pick from the Chicago Bulls, sending Pick No. 55 and some cash back to the Windy City in exchange.
The Los Angeles Lakers are moving up in the second round of the NBA Draft tonight, acquiring the No. 45 pick from the Chicago Bulls for No. 55 and cash, sources tell ESPN.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 26, 2025
Moving up 10 spots in any draft can make a big difference. In this case, the Lakers now have the perfect opportunity to target a prospect who'd help solve their frontcourt needs.
Lakers Could Target Rocco Zikarsky After Moving Up to No. 45
With addressing their razor-thin frontcourt being a top offseason priority, the Lakers could be gearing up to draft Australia's Rocco Zikarsky at No. 45 tonight. The 18-year-old big man is seen as a project prospect; however, the right development could see him become a key part of L.A.'s core sooner rather than later.
The first things that stand out about Zikarsky are his physical attributes. His 7-foot-2, 227-pound frame would add some much-needed size to the Lakers' frontcourt, especially if he can foster immediate lob chemistry with LeBron James and Luka Doncic. He isn't afraid to play down low and against the glass, and can help stretch the floor when asked.
In his two seasons with the Brisbane Bullets, Zikarsky averaged 3.8 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks with a 56.0% field-goal percentage in 45 games. The 2024-25 campaign saw him set career highs in just about every category, leaving time to tell if the upward trajectory follows him to North America, whether he's playing for the Lakers or another team.
A knee injury did prematurely end Zikarsky's NBL season, but all reports point to a full recovery. Still, his injury history could lead to teams passing him over, allowing the Lakers to potentially draft a center with starting potential at No. 45. That'd be quite the steal for Pelinka & Co. if Zikarsky can stay healthy while living up to his potential.
It isn't often that a 7-foot-2 center is as athletic as Zikarsky, and the Lakers can't afford to fumble his availability. Assuming he's still on the board at No. 45, L.A. must target the Australian rebounder if the front office wants to finally put its frontcourt woes to bed.