Lakers Draft Rumors: Late round sleepers the Lakers should consider
By Jason Reed
Josh Hart – Shooting Guard
The popular consensus is that the Los Angeles Lakers are going to go select a guard with their second overall selection. Even if they select Josh Jackson they likely would slot him in a shooting guard in the near future, adding to the backcourt alongside D’Angelo Russell. Despite likely bringing in a guard early in the draft, the Lakers could find a steal in Josh Hart.
Hart is currently ranked as the 40th best prospect in this draft, far lower than the 28th selection that the Lakers have. Many expect Hart to be a mid to late second-round pick if he is even drafted. Not many expect Hart to land in the first round, especially to the Los Angeles Lakers; adding to their overflow of guards.
However, Josh Hart had a promising senior year for Villanova that led to him taking home the Big East Player of the Year. Hart averaged 18.7 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.5 steals at the shooting guard position. He is a proven player that can go both ways on the court, bringing in a dynamic of physicality that otherwise may be lacking in this Lakers roster.
Hart has the ability to burst out scoring, having eight instances last season in which he scored 25 or more points. He can rebound the ball, as evident by his rebound total, and can even dish the rock when necessary.
Hart eclipsed the ten assists mark once last season, dropping ten dimes in route to a 16 point, 10 ten assist, and 11 rebound triple-double. Hart brings that hustle, physicality, and Heart that will make him successful in the NBA.