As the Los Angeles Lakers look toward a future potentially without LeBron James, the franchise seems to be setting its sights on building around Luka Doncic. With James, a four-time NBA champion and the league's all-time leading scorer, possibly entering free agency, the Lakers are considering their next moves carefully.
One intriguing possibility for the Lakers is drafting USC Trojans guard Alijah Arenas, the son of former All-Star Gilbert Arenas. Currently projected as the 21st overall pick in the 2026 draft by Bleacher Report, Arenas could be a key piece in supporting Doncic and filling the void left by James.
Arenas’ journey has been nothing short of remarkable. After a serious car accident last April that resulted in a medically-induced coma and knee surgery, his return to the court has been impressive. In his last three games, Arenas has scored 78 points, including a thrilling 24-point performance capped by a game-winning shot against Penn State.
Bleacher Report's Jonathan Wasserman highlights Arenas' skill set, noting his "eye-opening self-creation with sharp handles, shiftiness, and footwork." His ability to maneuver and keep defenders guessing, coupled with a confident shotmaking ability, makes him a compelling prospect.
If Arenas continues his strong play and leads USC into the NCAA Tournament, his draft stock is likely to rise. The Lakers, in their quest to redefine themselves in a post-LeBron era, might find in Arenas a dynamic partner for Doncic, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in Lakers history.