Home / Sports / Lakers Trade Down, Miss Out on UNC Big Man
Lakers Trade Down, Miss Out on UNC Big Man
25 Jun
Summary
- Lakers traded their No. 25 pick for Cameron Carr rights.
- They acquired and then traded the No. 56 pick for cash.
- Target Henri Veesaar went to Hawks, guided by agent.
On the second day of the 2026 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers executed a series of transactions that left fans puzzled. After acquiring the No. 56 overall pick from the Chicago Bulls, the team traded the rights to Vsevolod Ishchenko, the player selected with that pick, to the Dallas Mavericks for cash considerations. This move came as the Lakers had their sights set on North Carolina's Henri Veesaar.
The Lakers reportedly hoped to move up in the draft to select the 7-foot Veesaar. However, he was ultimately chosen by the Los Angeles Clippers at No. 52 and subsequently traded to the Atlanta Hawks. Reports indicate that Veesaar's agent actively guided the player away from joining the Lakers.
Veesaar, who averaged 17 points and 8.7 rebounds for the Tar Heels, showcased impressive offensive skills, including a 42.6% three-point percentage. His potential fit alongside Luka Doncic was noted, but his move to Atlanta marks a new chapter for the young Hawks team. The Lakers' front office appears to be prioritizing positional needs in their draft strategy.
