Chaz Lanier Will Be a Top Sleeper in the 2025 NBA Draft

Chaz Lanier’s Elite Shooting

Lanier was one of the best shooters in the country in the 2024 season.

His three-point shooting was the focal point of his scoring throughout the year. Lanier made 123 three-pointers during the 2024 season in a variety of ways. Lanier came off screens, catch-and-shoot opportunities, and shot fakes to create these opportunities. Shooting 39% from this range on eight attempts a game will make Chaz Lanier one of the best three-point shooters available in the draft.

Along with shooting from distance, Lanier is an excellent mid-range shooter. He used his ability from the three-point line to open up mid-range shots and driving lanes. Lanier was efficient when he got to the elbow for one-dribble pull-ups. He flashes three-level scorer potential with his athleticism, but he was inconsistent at finishing around the rim.

If Lanier polishes this up at the next level, he will become a reliable scorer for any team.

Lanier’s Weaknesses

While Lanier is one of the best shooters in the draft, his overall game will draw questions from NBA scouts. Lanier was not a great facilitator during his college career. He rarely occupied the assist column for stats. He also struggled to create space for himself off the dribble consistently. While teams in the NBA won’t be drafting Lanier for his creation abilities, he will have to improve in this area.

Lanier is also not the best defender. While his defensive numbers are not staggering, he is an average defender with room to grow.

Best Fits for Lanier

Teams that need shooting should be looking to get their hands on Lanier. One of these teams is the Golden State Warriors. The Warriors need consistency with shooting from the bench and should look no further than Lanier with their 41st pick.

Another team that should have Lanier on their radar is the Boston Celtics, who own the 28th and 32nd selections in the draft. The Celtics have had a fire sale due to the second apron, and they’ll need to maximize the value they have left to remain contenders. Lanier could step in and join the youth movement that includes Baylor Scheierman, Sam Hauser and Payton Pritchard.

Finally, the Los Angeles Clippers should be interested in Lanier. Like the teams listed above, the Clippers, who own the 30th pick in the draft, need more shooting off the bench. Lanier would be able to learn from a veteran like Norman Powell, who came into the NBA as an elite shooter.