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NBA Draft 2017: Predicting the first ten selections

By Keith Rivas

Jan 29, 2017; Tucson, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) walks up court during the second half against the Arizona Wildcats at McKale Center. Arizona won 77-66. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 29, 2017; Tucson, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) walks up court during the second half against the Arizona Wildcats at McKale Center. Arizona won 77-66. Mandatory Credit: Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 4, 2017; Gainesville, FL, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard De’Aaron Fox (0) works out prior to the game against the Florida Gators at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 4, 2017; Gainesville, FL, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard De’Aaron Fox (0) works out prior to the game against the Florida Gators at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

player. 20. . PG. Kentucky. De'Aaron Fox. 3

If the Lakers end up going with De’Aaron Fox, it’d be equivalent to the shakeup from a year ago when Jaylen Brown surprised everyone after being selected by Boston third overall. Los Angeles is in need of a star, but the debate between whether that should be Fox or Lonzo Ball is still in the air.

Two completely different styles of running the offense are at stake. The reason that the Lakers will take Fox is because Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka aren’t necessarily looking for the next star just yet.

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The draft is there for them to develop the young core, while making sure they push for a trade or wait for free agency to get a big name back in Los Angeles. Obviously, names like Paul George, who has expressed explicit desire for the Lakers, are at the top of the list.

Meanwhile, drafting Fox still gives the Lakers the chance to try D’Angelo Russell at shooting guard if they want to. It’s a scenario that’s been talked about even if they draft Lonzo Ball, but Fox doesn’t take anything away from that situation.

Lastly, the nail in the coffin might be family related. While Ball’s father is outspoken and could cause problems in the future with wild claims or over-involvement, the same can’t be said for Fox.

It’s all the talent without the drama — more common sense for the Lakers than some might think.

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