Allen Graves seems to check all of the necessary boxes. He's received positive reviews for his pre-draft interviews, measured well at the 2026 NBA Draft Combine, and seems to have a skill set that meets the standard of the modern NBA power forward. The reality the Los Angeles Lakers may struggle to make peace with, however, is that Graves has limited film against high-level competition.
Despite the concerns that inevitably stem from the uncertainty over how Graves will be able to hold up against NBA-caliber players and athletes, it'd be foolish to write him off as an option at No. 25.
At the 2026 NBA Draft Combine, Graves measured at 6'7.75" without shoes and 225 pounds with a 7'0" wingspan. That instantly piqued the interest of fans, scouts, and analysts looking for an unsung hero who could rise up big boards.
Unfortunately, concerns over how his athleticism may translate were amplified when he finished no better than third-to-last among power forwards in the lane agility drill, shuttle run, and three-quarter sprint.
Compounded by his fairly underwhelming 34.0" max vertical leap, Graves hasn't exactly silenced his critics. Regardless of how concerned some may be, however, he continues to rise up draft boards and seems secure with a first-round grade.
Thus, the question beckons: If Graves is still available at No. 25 overall, should the Lakers take a chance on his potential? It's easy to argue yes.
Allen Graves is polarizing, but has the tools to be a solid NBA player
Graves has ideal size and length for a power forward, as well as the production as a defensive playmaker to offer ample reason for intrigue. He averaged 3.4 steals and 1.7 blocks per 40 minutes, and the film supports his quality in regard to his ability to excel as a help-side defender.
Graves' per-40 production was tremendous all around: 20.8 points, 11.5 rebounds, 5.0 offensive boards, 3.2 assists, 3.4 steals, 1.7 blocks, and 1.9 three-point field goals made.
Compounded by his elite efficiency at a clip of .512/.413/.750, Graves has the numbers to make anyone look twice. He also has the skill to support the intrigue, as he's a confident shooter, tremendous offensive rebounder, gifted passer, and versatile scorer.
Graves' proficiency as a pick-and-pop marksman makes him a particularly intriguing fit alongside Luka Doncic, as does the fact that he comfortably plays above the rim despite how he tested at the Combine.
What makes Graves' lack of ideal lateral athleticism easier to overlook is that he has excellent body control, uses the glass on the drive, and has a decent post game. In Los Angeles, that could make him the ideal starting power forward—or at least a high-level reserve.
The Lakers can't blindly select Graves and hope for the best, but he has the talent and measurables to be a strong professional player. That at least deserves their due diligence.
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