Lakers Rumors: Ranking who is most likely to get drafted by the Lakers
By Jason Reed
![Feb 4, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) blocks a shot by Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) during the first half at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports Feb 4, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) blocks a shot by Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) during the first half at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/685672812a8f31487a3ef39d48bdffb1e96124183ec8dba7e4cda076b767da84.jpg)
4. Markelle Fultz
Chance of being drafted by LA: 10%
It would be interesting to see what the Lakers would do if someone other than Markelle Fultz was drafted first overall. Fultz is widely regarded as the best prospect in this draft. He is a natural scorer and can make plays on the ball, averaging 23.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game in his freshman year at Washington.
Whether the Celtics keep their draft pick or trade it, Fultz is still regarded as the best-suited player to go first overall. His transition into the NBA should be seamless, having the ability to help a team on day one. However, there is one problem, the Celtics don’t really need any more guards on their roster.
As of now, Isaiah Thomas and Avery Bradley start in the backcourt for Boston with Marcus Smart serving as the backup point guard. It would seem like a waste to draft the first overall player to sit unless the Celtics trade Thomas, which has been speculated. This could cause the Celtics to draft a guy like Josh Jackson to set up a platoon with Jae Crowder.
Regardless, the Celtics are more likely to either trade their pick or select Fultz and trade him. However, there is a very slim chance that isn’t the case. If Fultz does somehow fall to second overall there should be no hesitation by the Lakers to select him.