Zach Edey’s First NBA Test, Karim Lopez’s Draft Stock & Jazian Gortman’s Rise

In the latest Locked On NBA Big Board podcast, hosts Rafael Barlowe and Richard Stayman dive into the recent play of Karim Lopez, Zach Edey and Jazian Gortman in NBA preseason games. In the first segment, they discuss 17-year-old Karim Lopez, a potential lottery pick for the 2026 NBA Draft. Lopez has already built an impressive résumé, with professional experience in Europe, stints with the Mexican national team, and now playing in the NBL. The hosts break down his 13-point, 7-rebound, 3-assist performance against the Utah Jazz, analyzing his potential, draft range, and NBA comparisons. In the second segment, Barlowe shares his firsthand observations from Zach Edey’s preseason debut, where Edey posted 6 points and 7 rebounds. Lastly, they shift focus to Jazian Gortman’s 19-point performance, speculating whether the Mavericks’ recent decision to waive AJ Lawson could signal a two-way spot opening for Gortman.