NBA Draft 2017: Five prospects the Lakers need to keep an eye on
By Keith Rivas
De’Aaron Fox
A sleeper to watch in the draft is Kentucky point guard De’Aaron Fox. Although Fox’s Wildcats lost in the Elite Eight, he managed to outplay UCLA in the Sweet 16.
The reason that his play against the Bruins mattered was because it allowed him to upstage Lonzo Ball. It was overall a chance for both point guards to make their case for a higher draft stock, with Fox standing out at the end of the day.
Fox holds a stat line of 16.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. With those averages, it’s hard to say how that will translate at the next level.
Los Angeles needs to consider Fox because of his potential to help lighten the load for D’Angelo Russell. Russell’s game has been explored at the role of shooting guard, so if the Lakers can get a true point guard, it would be in their best interest.
Tony Kornheiser says he'd take De'Aaron Fox No. 1 overall in the NBA Draft https://t.co/zZ2qpPa42S #BBN pic.twitter.com/rJ6Bv2kGKs
— TheCatsPause247 (@TheCatsPause247) March 30, 2017
Fox, when compared to Lonzo Ball or Markelle Fultz, is a different kind of player. He can be that explosive guy that takes over a game when the team needs it, but he can also be enough of a facilitator to run the Lakers’ offense.
One thing to consider about Fox, however, is his lack of success from beyond the arc. Shooting just 24% in his lone season at Kentucky, the Lakers would have to know what they’re getting if they decide to draft him.
It doesn’t prevent them from picking him up, but could be a deterring factor.
He’s listed as the ninth best prospect in a ranking done by CBS Sports.