Why the Lakers Must Trade Up For Khaman Maluach
Khaman Maluach Is Worth Trading Up For
Concerns Are Valid, But They Don’t Define Him
Teams have questioned Khaman Maluach’s ability to score at a professional level, especially after his rough 21 minutes in the Final Four against Houston—no rebounds and four fouls. But one game shouldn’t define his upside.
His Overseas Game Paints a Bigger Picture
Before Duke, Maluach starred in South Sudan and the BAL league. He showed a face-up game, an impressive vertical leap, and the occasional mid-range jumper. Even though he doesn’t shoot often, Maluach still makes a big impact. His Offensive Rating (ORTG) sits at 147.3, meaning he produces nearly 150 points per 100 possessions.
7’2 Khaman Maluach at Klutch Pro Day 🔥 he has continued to impress NBA teams with his development over the years and his jumper continues to blossom. Maluach started played basketball at 13 years old. Anthony Davis was also in attendance @JordanRichardSC pic.twitter.com/WTkttsQlET
— Swish Cultures (@swishcultures_) May 21, 2025
The Ideal Pick-and-Roll Partner for Luka and LeBron
Picture LeBron’s court vision paired with Luka’s pick-and-roll play. Maluach becomes a lob threat that adds another dimension. He ranks third in true shooting at 74.5%, showing just how efficient he is.
Checks Every Box the Lakers Are Looking For
The center market is dry this offseason. The Lakers clearly want youth and athleticism, and Maluach fits that mold. Plus, he’s affordable and has big upside. He recently made 14 three-pointers in a row in a draft workout. If he brings that into games, he could evolve into a real floor spacer.
Built Like a Star, Ready for the Moment
With a 9’6” standing reach, he’s not far from Mark Williams’s 9’9”. Maluach finishes 78% of his shots at the rim and can reach up to 84% on plays Coach Redick could design. He’s 250 pounds, not a toothpick, and still agile. He’s even shown limited ball-handling flashes.
He’s developed better discipline on defense, no longer jumping at every fake, and his recovery skills are strong. His IQ on switches and pick-and-roll reads continues to grow.
He can beam passes and create plays from the post in ways similar to what Vanderbilt does now—only with more offensive upside. That unlocks new layers in the Lakers’ pace and playstyle.
Truly believe Khaman Maluach has the ability to dominate the paint on both ends of the floor. Unreal physical tools with a nice blend of mobility and hip movements.
An obvious lob threat at all times, but also has great touch inside the paint on hooks or push shots. Defensively… pic.twitter.com/M8dF3lGiJ2
— Global Scouting (@GlobalScouting_) May 20, 2025
Final Thoughts
This move won’t break the bank. It checks what the Lakers need now—rim protection, lob threat, athleticism—and brings long-term potential.
Dalton Knecht still has value, especially to teams that missed on him in last year’s draft. If LA packages him alongside another pick, they could land a pick in the 4–9 range and secure Maluach.
If the Lakers want to maximize LeBron and Luka’s window while building for the future, trading up for Khaman Maluach makes perfect sense.
