The Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat are looking to acquire a top-five pick in the 2024 NBA Draft

The Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat both saw their postseason come to an end in just five games. The former wound up with the 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, while the latter will select 15th. Both franchises are reportedly looking to trade into the top-five of the draft, according to Sam Amico of Hoops Wire.

The NBA insider wrote:

One league source told Hoops Wire last week that he envisions the Lakers and Heat making a strong play for a top-five pick. Also, the Memphis Grizzlies hold the No. 9 overall pick and could be among those exploring the idea of moving down. Some feel that in this draft, there won’t be much of a difference in upside between, say, the Nos. 9 and 20 selections. [h/t Hoops Wire]

While the 2024 NBA Draft is said to lack top-end talent, there is strong depth. It remains unclear if either the Lakers or Heat will find a dance partner, or which players either franchise is targeting. The draft is set to take place on June 26th and 27th. It will mark the first time in league history that it will be held across multiple days.

The Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat worked out Zach Edey ahead of 2024 NBA Draft

Zach Edey was named the national college Player of the Year in back-to-back seasons. Despite his elite collegiate career, the former Purdue Boilermakers center’s draft stock remains a question mark. He has held workouts with both the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat, according to Hoops Hype’s workout tracker.

While Los Angeles is widely expected to select Bronny James in the second round, it remains a mystery which direction they will go in the first round. Meanwhile, Miami’s plans also remain unclear as they have held workouts with several potential first-round picks. Both franchises are likely looking to add talent that can contribute immediately in the 2024 NBA Draft.

There are questions about how many minutes Edey will be able to play as a rookie, particularly due to his pick-and-roll defense and perimeter defense. The Lakers and Heat both have starting centers – Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo, respectively – and would not need the rookie to enter a starting role.