Lakers draft rumors: Taking Jordan Bell late would be ultimate steal
By Keith Rivas
The latest Lakers draft rumors look at why Jordan Bell would be a nice fit late in the first round.
Even before the draft lottery, a lot of buzz was centered on what the Lakers would do if they stayed in the top three of the draft order. Turns out that they’ll pick second, again, with the opportunity to take almost anybody.
With the exception of Markelle Fultz, the feel is that all other players will be on the table. Unless, of course, Boston makes a shocking move and takes someone else.
While that’s being talked about, not enough of a conversation has come up about what the Lakers should do with their other first round pick. It’s the 28th selection, and could be where they find a future power forward.
Enter Jordan Bell.
Playing last season with the Oregon Ducks, the Los Angeles born forward might be their best bet if he’s not taken by then. By all means, he could be drafted earlier than that, but if he slips through, the Lakers need to grab him.
Los Angeles needs production at power forward. There is promise with Julius Randle and Larry Nance Jr., but not much else. Randle still hasn’t found his groove, and Nance isn’t a starter just yet.
Bell is the kind of player that would fight for a starting role immediately. Also, it would help Magic Johnson and Luke Walton know who to weed out.
With Brandon Ingram being the only untouchable, that means Julius Randle is under observation. If he doesn’t perform, and a late first rounder takes his starting spot, you can kiss him good bye.
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He averaged 10.9 points and 8.8 rebounds in his junior season with the Ducks.