At the 2019 NBA Draft Lottery, the Los Angeles Lakers’ fortunes changed when they moved up seven and landed the No. 4 pick with a 4.9% chance.
With the 2019 NBA Draft approaching on June 20, Jarrett Culver was the first player scheduled for pre-draft workouts at the UCLA Health Training Center.
After two years at Texas Tech where Culver improved in all major categories except for three-point shooting, he has an idea on his fit with the Lakers.
“Being a two-way player. Being able to operate with LeBron. I know he’s going to have the ball a lot,” Culver said after his pre-draft workout.
“And being able to play defense, I feel like I can adjust to defense in the league very well, guard guys, and just playmaking.”
During Culver’s workout, he wanted to show he can improve upon his 30.4% shooting from the three-point line during his sophomore year.
“I want to show that I can shoot the ball very well and I’m a competitor. I want to win drills, be able to compete, and show my athleticism,” Culver said.
As there can be pressure in these types of situations, the 20-year-old reacted to potential teammate LeBron James attending his pre-draft workout.
“You’re kinda shocked at first. I know LeBron plays here, but I didn’t expect him to be here. I mean, you’re kind of shocked at first,” Culver admitted.
“It’s LeBron James, you hear about him, and just seeing him. He’s an icon.”
While the Lakers reportedly are interested in Darius Garland or De’Andre Hunter, it will be interesting to see if Culver’s workout changed their opinions.
As Culver led the Red Raiders to their first NCAA championship experience in school history, he averaged 18.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists en route to Big 12 Player of the Year and Second Team All-American.
With 20 days left, the Lakers are expected to work out more prospects and could potentially bring back Culver for a second pre-draft workout.