13/05/2026
Best Player for the Lakers to Target This Offseason: Julian Reese 🏀💜💛
If Rob Pelinka is looking for cheap, high-energy frontcourt depth this summer, "Julian Reese" should be on the Lakers’ radar. He’s young, productive, and wouldn’t cost any assets.
What he brings to the Lakers:
1. Elite rebounding & energy
Reese averaged 10.5 rebounds in 30.9 MPG for Washington this season. That’s 4.2 offensive boards per game. The Lakers got killed on the glass in the playoffs. Reese fixes that immediately.
2. Defensive versatility
At 6’9”, 250 lbs with a 7’2” wingspan, he can switch onto wings and protect the rim. Averaged 1.4 steals + 0.6 blocks in limited NBA run. Perfect for JJ Redick’s switching scheme.
3. Efficient finishing
Shot 52.9% from the field with zero 3pt attempts. He’s a rim-runner, lob threat, and putback guy. Exactly what you want playing off Luka and LeBron.
Career highs you need to know:
- 18 points, 20 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal vs Utah Jazz on 3/5/2026. Went 5/7 FG and 8/8 FT in 38 min.
- 17 points, 16 rebounds, 3 steals vs Brooklyn Nets
- 20 pts, 17 reb in G-League for Raptors 905 earlier this year
Why only 13 games this season?
Reese went undrafted in 2025, signed a two-way/exhibit 10 deal with Washington. The Wizards were tanking and gave him a late-season look. In 13 games he averaged 11.8 PPG, 10.5 RPG & 1.8 APG. Small sample, but the production is real.
How can the Lakers get him?
He’s a restricted free agent this summer. Easiest path: sign him to a minimum deal or two-way contract. Lakers have a track record of turning G-League guys into rotation players. Reese won’t cost assets, and he’s already 22 with 4 years at Maryland.
If you want a high-motor big who rebounds, defends, and doesn’t need the ball, Reese is your guy. Low risk, high reward.
Thoughts Lakers Nation?
Should Pelinka make the call? 👇
