Texas Tech guard Jarrett Culver is scheduled for a 2019 NBA pre-draft workout with the Los Angeles Lakers, the team announced on May 31.
With the No. 4 pick, Culver will be the team’s first individual workout leading up to the 2019 NBA Draft on June 20 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
After moving up seven spots, the 20-year-old became a realistic option.
In Culver’s first season at Texas Tech where he started 20 out of his 37 games, he averaged 11.2 points (45.5% shooting from the field and 38.2% shooting from the three-point line) and 4.8 rebounds in 26.4 minutes.
And in Culver’s second season where he started all 38 games, he averaged 18.5 points (46.1% shooting from the field and 30.4% shooting from the three-point line), 6.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 32.5 minutes.
With the increased role during his sophomore season, Culver improved in all major categories except his three-point percentage as he led the Red Raiders to their first NCAA championship appearance in school history.
For Culver’s efforts, he was named the Big 12 Player of the Year.
Heading into Culver’s pre-draft workout with Los Angeles, he is an intriguing option. At 6’5″ with a 6’10” wingspan, he is able to guard multiple positions. In addition, he is an above-average rebounder, especially at his position.
Outside of Culver’s defensive potential, he still has room for improvement on offense. While he showed improvements as a ballhandler and playmaker, the decrease in his three-point percentage will need to be addressed.
Along with Darius Garland and De’Andre Hunter, Culver could be the team’s selection if they ultimately decide to add to their young core of Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, Kyle Kuzma, and Lonzo Ball for the 2019-20 NBA season.