NBA Draft 2017: Five prospects the Lakers need to keep an eye on

Mar 23, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) shoots during practice the day before the South Regional semifinals of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 23, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) shoots during practice the day before the South Regional semifinals of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 29, 2017; Louisville, KY, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) dribbles the ball against the Louisville Cardinals during the first half at KFC Yum! Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 29, 2017; Louisville, KY, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Dennis Smith Jr. (4) dribbles the ball against the Louisville Cardinals during the first half at KFC Yum! Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports /

Dennis Smith Jr.

While you could argue that Dennis Smith Jr. is another wild card, he offers more than at first glance. The freshman point guard proved he could score buckets this season, averaging about 18 points per game.

Also, since the Lakers are considering their options at point guard, Smith Jr. really isn’t a bad option. Considering the drama that could come from other prospects or the lack of ability to perform under pressure, he’s worth the risk.

A unique stat about him is his ability to steal the ball. Over the course of the season, he took possession away from his opponent 62 times.

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That’s not something to ignore.

This would answer the question of how he would help Los Angeles on defense. Having an effective young core that can score and run a fluid offense means nothing if the defense is trash.

Smith Jr. stays aggressive throughout the entire time that he’s on the court. This shows how much heart and soul he puts into the game, and is an additional factor not to overlook.

The glaring problem with Smith Jr. is his inability to keep the ball once he steals it. At NC State, he recorded 108 turnovers by himself — something that overshadows initial excitement over his defensive promise.

A lot can still change between now and draft night, but he should definitely be on the Lakers’ radar moving forward.

He’s ranked as the sixth best prospect by CBS Sports.