Lakers draft rumors: 3 reasons to go with Dennis Smith Jr.

The Lakers were more impressed with his workout

More than anything else, the pre-draft workouts seem to be what is messing with Lonzo Ball’s shot at staying in LA. Apparently, the team thought that Ball wasn’t in good enough shape while being pretty impressed with Smith Jr.

Also, the ability to thrive in a group setting as opposed to a solo workout is something for fans and the front office to also consider.

Per the OC Register:

"“You have guys coming out and competing; they want the same thing you want,” Smith Jr. said after his workout on Sunday at the Lakers’ practice facility. “That’s to be against the top get to compete against them. So you get to see who’s really a dog.”"

It’s hard to argue that his competitive attitude will be easy to pass on. And just because he hasn’t been in too much of the discussion as a second or third overall pick doesn’t mean it’s too late to have that talk.

He’s definitely a gamble that the Lakers would be taking on draft night, but isn’t anybody? Any of these college prospects, even and especially the hyped ones, could turn out to be busts at the next level.

That in mind, if he’s more impressive ahead of the draft than any other guard, what’s the hold up?