Nov 12, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Lamont Butler (1) dribbles against Duke Blue Devils guard Tyrese Proctor (5) during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Lakers, Clippers Work Out Former Kentucky Guard Before NBA Draft

Originally posted on Los Angeles Clippers on SI
By Logan Struck | Last updated May 25, 2025 1:22 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers both ended their 2024-25 seasons much earlier than anticipated with first-round playoff exits, and now the two Hollywood franchises are looking ahead to a potentially busy offseason.

With the 2025 NBA Draft just a month away, both teams seem to be prepping similarly. The Lakers own just one pick in June's draft at 55th overall, while the Clippers have two, 30th and 51st.

With neither team having a high pick, they could be battling for prospects down the board, including Kentucky standout guard Lamont Butler.

Butler, 22, spent four seasons at San Diego State before transferring to Kentucky for his final season of collegiate basketball. The 2023-24 Mountain West Conference Defensive Player of the Year is not shooting up many draft boards, but the Lakers and Clippers could be willing to take a chance on him.

Both the Lakers and Clippers reportedly worked out Butler ahead of next month's draft.

Among the current NBA teams showing interest in Lamont Butler & that he will work out for include the Hawks, Raptors, Lakers & Clippers. Lamont needs just one NBA team to believe in his pro potential & give him a chance to develop & follow his dream. Good luck, Lamont.
— Bill O'Rear (@billohoops) May 21, 2025

Butler averaged 11.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.6 steals per game in his lone season at Kentucky with 49.8/39.1/73.5 shooting splits. The 6-foot-2 guard has plenty of tools on both ends of the floor that can translate to the NBA level, and two high-level organizations bringing him in for a workout is a great sign for him.

Former Kentucky G Lamont butler with the Windmill at the Lakers facility

Seems like butler is now working out with the Lakers

: ackrightpremier#BBN pic.twitter.com/yqMz9JhTmb
— Austin (@BBNAustin) May 21, 2025

A high-motor, athletic guard with impressive defensive tools could be exactly what these veteran-led teams need at the end of their bench. The Lakers and Clippers both have late second-round picks, so keep an eye on Lamont Butler as day two of the NBA Draft winds down.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Clippers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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