Lakers Tipped to Draft Versatile Frontcourt Prospect

Houston's Chris Cenac Jr. projected to Los Angeles in 2026 NBA Draft

Mar. 16, 2026 at 2:25pm

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The Los Angeles Lakers are projected to select Houston forward Chris Cenac Jr. with the 22nd overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, according to recent mock drafts. Cenac, a 19-year-old with a 6'11" frame, has drawn interest as a modern frontcourt prospect who can stretch the floor and provide interior activity.

Why it matters

The Lakers are looking to strengthen their frontcourt depth this offseason, with the potential departure of LeBron James and inconsistent play from Deandre Ayton. Cenac's combination of size, shooting ability, and developmental potential could make him an appealing target as the team aims to build a sustainable contender.

The details

Through 34 games this season, Cenac is averaging 9.5 points and 7.5 rebounds while shooting 49.3% from the field and 34.5% from three-point range. Analysts have noted that if Cenac can continue to improve his shooting and interior activity, his archetype could translate well to a supporting role in the modern NBA.

  • The Lakers currently control their 2026 first-round pick.
  • The 2026 NBA Draft is projected to take place in June 2026.

The players

Chris Cenac Jr.

A 19-year-old forward from the University of Houston who has been projected to the Lakers in recent mock drafts.

LeBron James

The Lakers' star player who may depart the team this offseason.

Deandre Ayton

The Lakers' current starting center who has had an inconsistent season.

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What they’re saying

“If the Lakers are thinking need-filling with this pick, then they're probably looking for a pick-and-roll partner for Luka Dončić. Cenac, admittedly, isn't a perfect fit right now, but there are reasons to believe (or at least hope) he could grow into one.”

— Zach Buckley, Bleacher Report Analyst

“Assuming he continues to build on his shooting over the next few years, his archetype seems very translatable to a supporting role, being a 6'11' big who can stretch the floor and provide easy buckets and interior activity.”

— Jonathan Wasserman, Bleacher Report Analyst

What’s next

The Lakers are expected to have significant trade flexibility this offseason, with three first-round picks in 2026, 2031 and 2033 that could be used in potential deals, including an 'all-out pursuit' of Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The takeaway

By targeting a versatile frontcourt prospect like Chris Cenac Jr. in the 2026 NBA Draft, the Lakers can continue to build a sustainable contender around their core, while also maintaining financial flexibility to potentially pursue star-level talent through trades or free agency.