NBA Draft 2017: Predicting the first ten selections

While there’s plenty of hype surrounding Lonzo Ball, the next team that would want to get him if the Lakers pass on him at third overall and he’s not selected first is the Timberwolves. If Ricky Rubio really is on his way out soon, Ball would be the third piece to a strong point guard future.

Also, all of the talk of Ball being the missing piece to a young core in Los Angeles — but what about Minnesota? They’ve got a strong showing at each position with the exception of consistency at point guard.

More from LA Sports Hub

• Lakers: 5 Players to Target Through Trades to make another championship run
• LA Chargers: Week 8 against Denver Broncos is a must-win
• LA Rams: Jared Goff wants to keep the Los Angeles title streak going
• Lakers Rumors: Los Angeles Clippers interested in Rajon Rondo
• LA Chargers: Justin Herbert wins AFC Rookie of the Month

Being drafting sixth instead of third or first like most think he will doesn’t diminish his talent at all. Instead, it just means teams chose to fit other needs ahead of the role of point guard that he fills.

Additionally, since he’s a pass first player, Ball would be able to get the Timberwolves’ shooters their shots. Rubio hasn’t been able to do that, but drafting Ball gives the team the leverage to trade him for less than they might have originally.

Whether or not Ball could become the long-term starter is another question. Kris Dunn is still trying to find his game while Tyus Jones will serve as a good backup either way. If Ball doesn’t land the starting job in Minnesota, it’s ultimately up to how he handles time on the bench when it comes to his game translating the right way.

But in any case, this could be his best fit.