The Los Angeles Lakers' decision to draft Jalen Hood-Schifino instead of UCLA's Jaime Jaquez Jr. is already drawing criticism, with the former Bruins star exceeding expectations in Miami.

Missed Opportunity: Sources within the Lakers organization reveal internal support for drafting Jaquez, who has quickly become a fan favorite for the Miami Heat. His impressive rookie season, putting him in the Rookie of the Year conversation behind only Holmgren and Wembanyama, makes the Lakers' choice sting even more.

Hood-Schifino's Limited Role: Meanwhile, Hood-Schifino has struggled to find playing time in Los Angeles. After a string of DNPs early on, he's only recently entered the rotation, appearing in just seven games this season.

Executive's Lament: A Western Conference executive criticized the Lakers' draft strategy, stating, "They blew it… You could watch him (Jaquez) last year and just tell he was ready to chip in for a good NBA team. They needed guys who could play now. And look at what Jaquez is doing."

Jimmy Butler Out for Lakers Clash: The Lakers will face the Heat without their star player, Jimmy Butler, who remains sidelined with a foot injury. This marks Butler's 10th missed game, putting his eligibility for regular season awards in jeopardy if he misses more than seven.