The Los Angeles Lakers are staring at elimination, trailing the Minnesota Timberwolves 3-1 in their playoff series. History offers little comfort. Only 13 teams have ever rallied from such a deficit to win a series. The last to achieve it were the Denver Nuggets, who pulled it off twice in 2020. If anyone understands 3-1 comebacks, it’s LeBron James. Still, the odds remain firmly against the Lakers. Their season is, for all intents and purposes, finished. Luka Dončić, traded to Los Angeles with a clear mission to win, now faces his first first-round exit since 2021. The Lakers have secured their superstar for now, but Luka’s future isn’t guaranteed. He holds a player option after the 2025-26 season. If not satisfied with the team’s competitiveness, Dončić could become a free agent in 2026 or 2027. To protect their investment, the Lakers must move quickly and wisely this summer. One name should top their list: Khaman Maluach. The need for the Lakers to target Khaman Maluach in the Draft is not a luxury; it is a necessity.
Freshman big man Maluach declared for the NBA draft after helping Duke reach the Final Four. Standing at 7-foot-2 and weighing 250 pounds, Maluach has only begun to scratch the surface of his immense potential.
Duke coach Jon Scheyer praised Maluach’s foundation, noting that his best years lie ahead. Maluach’s skill set remains raw, but his 7-foot-5 wingspan and 9-foot-8 standing reach make him one of the most physically gifted prospects.
During his lone season at Duke, he averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. Even more impressive, he shot an incredible 71.2% from the field. His free-throw percentage (76.6%) and ability to knock down occasional threes hint at even more offensive upside.
A Lakers’ Khaman Maluach Draft plan makes even more sense when considering his defensive versatility. He can anchor the paint and step out to defend perimeter players. That rare combination is exactly what Dončić needs beside him.
