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

By Keith Rivas

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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Mar 4, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Lavar Ball embraces his son UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) after the game against the Washington State Cougars at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Lavar Ball embraces his son UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) after the game against the Washington State Cougars at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports /

Just like the image for this slide suggests, drafting Lonzo Ball means you also get his father, Lavar. After making a number of ridiculous claims throughout this past UCLA season, LaVar Ball has taken the media by storm and his outspoken confidence in his son doesn’t well with everyone.

Ideally, the Lakers will take the best overall player available at the time they get to make a selection.

Ball has earned his right to be considered by the teams picking at the top, but his selection also comes with added pressure. The drama aspect that could become a public relations nightmare thanks to his father is fitting for Los Angeles, but not necessarily what the Lakers want.

There was enough drama between teammates and then-coach Byron Scott. The last thing on their mind is more distractions.

In the Sweet 16, UCLA was eliminated by the Kentucky Wildcats. Having more strength, skill, and durability helped the Bruins meet their match.

Lozno has talked about what it’d be like to play for Los Angeles, but it’s safe to say he’d feel good about playing anywhere. As long as he makes it to the NBA, which he’ll obviously do by landing somewhere in June.

By drafting Ball and looking past anything off the court, the Lakers would be trusting another young star with their offense. It would give the impression that D’Angelo Russell could be moving around to shooting guard as well — but that might be what’s best for him.

He is ranked as the third best prospect by CBS Sports.

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