Lakers: Way-too-early targets for the first-round of the 2018 NBA Draft

Chimezie Metu — PF/C

This would be a backup plan of sorts for the Lakers if they cannot land Mitchell Robinson. If Pelinka and Johnson were sold on the idea of adding depth in the frontcourt, Chimezie Metu would be the next best realistic option for the Lakers to draft. And hey, drafting the hometown UCLA kid worked out nicely, maybe it is time to draft the hometown USC kid.

Metu has easily been the USC Trojans best player this season and has seen his draft stock climb because of it. Before the season, Metu likely would have been an early to mid second round pick, looked at as nothing more than a depth option at the NBA level.

However, in the right system with the right coaching, Metu can turn into something special in the NBA. At six-foot-eleven he would be a huge addition for the Lakers in the frontcourt, especially if LA wants to go with the smaller Julius Randle as the starting center.

Metu is another great shot-blocker that could extend the court if need be and knock down some mid-range jumpers. The junior is averaging 15.7 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game this season. He is a great finisher at the rim and with some added weight could be an elite NBA rebounder.

Again, this would serve as a backup plan of sorts if LA cannot get Robinson with the Cavaliers pick. If LA is sold on a big man, go Metu. If not, it may be better to go for another position.