Lakers draft night provides optimism into the offseason
The Los Angeles Lakers sent a huge message towards the entire NBA this week, and they’re only getting started.
The Lakers became one the biggest winners in the NBA this week thanks to Magic Johnson, Rob Pelinka, and new management.
Luke Walton has more talent to work with in his upcoming second season as head coach. A significant effort was made to get better this year, and it only took a few days to implement strategy.
D’Angelo Russell was a promising young asset, but he and Timofey Mosgov were traded to the Brooklyn Nets. The Lakers received Brook Lopez, and the 27th pick in the first round of the NBA Draft.
Los Angeles already earned the second overall pick after the lottery, and already acquired the 28th pick from Houston. However, that pick from the Rockets was sent to Utah in exchange for picks number 30 and 42 (second round).
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It’s amazing because LA hasn’t had three first round picks since 1977, two years before Magic Johnson was drafted first overall.
Lonzo Ball, LA’s first selection of the night, figures to be the point guard of the future. This team desperately needs a floor general that can deliver and become a leader of grown men on the court.
Many speculated that the 27th and 30th pick would be used to trade for Paul George but that didn’t happen.
LA selected Kyle Kuzma with the 27th pick, and Josh Hart with the 30th pick instead.
Kuzma is a forward from Utah that made gradual improvement last season, and showed versatility during the draft combine scrimmages. He rebounds well, has a nice shot, and is a relentless worker that can provide a spark off the bench.
The final pick of the first round actually turned out to be a solid selection for the Lakers.
Josh Hart was the Big East Player of the Year, and he’s proved that he can win while at Villanova.
Hart will become a nice addition to the back court rotation as an efficient scorer, defender and fundamentally sound shooting guard. He has a smooth game, and will be a nice complement to Jordan Clarkson off the bench.
Thomas Bryant was selected at 42 in the second round, and will have to come into summer league with a hungry mindset.
Indiana’s big man banged in the gritty Big Ten conference, and runs the floor well. He can set himself up for a possible future in LA if he works hard enough.
Next: Lonzo Ball Will Lead The Next Lakers Regime
Overall, the Lakers addressed certain needs Thursday night and received substantial benefits from their efficient draft selections.