In his latest mock following the NBA Draft Combine, Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman projected the Lakers to land a decorated veteran forward in the second round: Villanova’s scoring ace, Eric Dixon. He may have the size and scoring potential the Lakers want, but does that pick make sense at no. 55?

Draft Analyst Predicts Lakers Land NCAA Scoring Leader
Background

A three-time All-Big East selection, the fifth-year Dixon boasts a plethora of accolades, particularly in his final season. The 6’8” forward led the NCAA in scoring with 23.3 points, along with 5.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 0.8 steals on .451/.407/.813 splits. Dixon also became the Wildcats’ all-time leading scorer, finishing with 2,314 career points in 162 games, and earned All-American third-team nods from the Associated Press and United States Basketball Writers Association.

At 6’8” and 265 pounds, Dixon is a bruising power forward who can put the ball in the basket at all three levels. He’s somewhat mobile despite his strong frame and has a knack for scoring on drives and post-ups. While a majority of his looks came at the rim, Dixon also expanded his shooting range over time, attempting 42% of his shots from deep in his final season. Scouting reports praise Dixon’s “fundamentally sound” game and ability to do the “dirty work.”

However, there are several concerns over Dixon’s defensive versatility and athleticism, both coming from a lack of agility. Taking care of the ball is another area of growth for Dixon, as he holds career averages of 1.5 turnovers to 1.4 assists.

HoopsHype Interview

In an interview with HoopsHype’s Cyro Asseo, Dixon said he brings “intelligence, toughness, and the ability to connect on both sides of the floor” from day one.

“One thing that stands out is my screening ability and my knack for helping teammates get open,” he added, noting defenders had to “respect” his shot-making abilities as well.

As for the upcoming defensive challenges, Dixon said he’s worked on switching “constantly” at Villanova and is “comfortable guarding all positions.”

“My body type and the way I think about the game allow me to do that,” he added. “Guarding threes, fours, and fives isn’t new to me. I’m excited for the challenge and to go up against the best in the world. I’m ready to step up.”

Dixon’s Potential Fit with the Lakers

The fifth-year forward appears to be a solid fit in LA, especially for a team whose frontcourt struggles became magnified in the postseason. Dixon’s three-level scoring and physicality would boost the team’s lineups, and his screen-setting would be vital next to LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Dixon would also fit into JJ Redick’s small ball lineups. He’s familiar with switching schemes, is confident in guarding one through five, and has the size at center to boot, which is crucial on the glass. His floor-spacing on offense would do wonders for the Lakers, especially in a group that Redick dubbed the “lasers lineup.”

Eric Dixon has been one of the most statistically dominant players this season. He’s been doing everything for Villanova the past couple seasons. The counting stats don’t share the whole story though as his defense and size will limit him in the NBA. #nbadraft pic.twitter.com/tNBD5I2rVI

— Brian Taylor (@Weridos1221) March 19, 2025

Given Eric Dixon’s limitations, he may not be the favorite for the Lakers at 55, especially with the team needing lob threat bigs with solid defense (traits they could find in other second-round prospects). However, Rob Pelinka should still consider the Villanova forward for his offensive talent and overall toughness.

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