Lakers explore center prospect Rafael Castro ahead of draft

The Los Angeles Lakers are evaluating draft prospects, including center Rafael Castro from George Washington University. Castro, standing 6-foot-11 and weighing 220 pounds, had an impressive senior season with averages of 15.3 points, 9.1 rebounds, and solid defensive stats. With the Lakers projected to have significant salary cap space and two future first-round draft picks, they aim to address their center position, which lacks appealing options in free agency. Castro could be a late second-round pick or go undrafted, depending on team assessments leading up to the draft.

• 12:03 PMYahoo Sports — 2026 Lakers draft prospects: Rafael Castro