NBA analyst predicts Purdue star Zach Edey getting picked by LA Lakers in final 2024 mock draft

Zach Edey has been at the center of much draft conversation throughout his senior year at Purdue. After testing the NBA waters last year, he returned to West Lafayette and had a dominant season, averaging 25.2 points and 12.2 rebounds.

With the 2024 NBA draft less than 24 hours away, the latest reports suggest that the LA Lakers could be Zach Edey's potential landing spot going at No. 17. Jonathan Givony of ESPN wrote in his report:

"The Lakers likely will explore the trade market to see what type of veterans they can add to give LeBron James, Anthony Davis and new coach J.J. Redick the best chance of competing this season, ... Should the Lakers elect to stand pat, picking a plug-and-play center like Edey would make a lot of sense."

Givony also pointed out the case of Anthony Davis, who is coming off one of his healthiest seasons, as he played 76 games against previous years' 56, 40 and 36. Still, at 31 and accounting for his injury track record, Davis could require restricted minutes and will need a big man to assist.

"Enter Edey, who can bring the Lakers some of the physicality they've been lacking inside the paint at times, with L.A. finishing as the NBA's worst offensive-rebounding team last season," Givony said.

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Zach Edey impresses scouts and teams with his mindset

Edey is known for his dedication on court and attitude of constantly working on himself. Having taken up basketball quite late, at 16, he had a lot to catch up on compared to his peers, and he had to do it quickly.

Right after the NBA draft combine in May, Bleacher Report revealed that Zach Edey impressed teams with his serious-minded approach in interviews.

"Edey discussed the joy he takes in punishing opponents with his physicality, a trait that was readily apparent on film. Edey has fans in the top 10, but also plenty of detractors, creating a somewhat wide range that extends into the 20s, depending on how the draft shakes out."

All that has increased his chances in the draft with the probability of even a lottery pick, but his restricted upside and playing style could affect his chances.

The first round of the 2024 NBA draft will be held on Wednesday from 8 p.m. EST at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. It will be broadcast live on ESPN and ABC.

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