The Los Angeles Lakers have a real chance to make noise in the postseason, as they are the No. 3 seed in the loaded Western Conference with a record of 46-26.
Still, the organization’s focus is on the future and building around franchise cornerstone Luka Dončić. This includes complementing Dončić with their selection in the 2026 NBA Draft.
Lakers Select Meleek Thomas in 2026 NBA Mock Draft
The Arkansas Razorbacks are gearing up for their March Madness matchup against No. 1 seed Arizona. Some Arkansas players are playing for more than just a chance at a national championship, including guard Meleek Thomas.
Thomas is among the many players looking to use March Madness as an opportunity to boost his draft stock, and he’s done an excellent job so far. Against Hawai’i, Thomas finished with 21 points, eight rebounds, and five assists on 56.3% shooting. Versus High Point, he recorded 19 points on 8 of 16 shooting.
Still, Bleacher Report sees Thomas going late in the first round. In their latest mock draft, he lands with the Lakers with the No. 25 pick.
“Meleek Thomas got off to an excellent start in the NCAA tournament with his shotmaking and efficiency,” B/R’s Jonathan Wasserman wrote. “He’s played with confidence easy to see just by watching his shot diet and how decisive he looks rising up into jumpers.”
“Though there would be more interest in Thomas if he was able to showcase some playmaking, NBA teams could see late first-round value around his potential to provide instant offense, spot-up shooting and active defense off the bench,” Wasserman concluded.
Check out this scouting report on Thomas from PFSN’s NBA Mock Draft Simulator:
Meleek Thomas stands out as a scoring guard known for his smooth and versatile offensive skills. He has a quick first step and can finish well through contact. At 6’4″, he brings good size and length, along with a scorer’s mindset that helps him create shots off the dribble, hit deep threes, and make runners in traffic. Thomas is also a skilled playmaker with strong ball-handling, uses both hands well, and thrives in fast-paced play.
His assertiveness and confidence help him take tough shots and score in clutch moments. On defense, Thomas works hard and anticipates plays well, often getting his hands on the ball and helping out as a rebounder, even though guards are usually not known for their size. His focus on scoring can sometimes make him inefficient or streaky, but he is improving at attacking the rim and setting up teammates.
If he keeps improving his shot selection and efficiency, Thomas could become a dynamic, one-and-done guard who makes an impact on both ends of the floor in the NBA.
