Los Angeles Lakers: Post-Combine 2018 NBA Draft big board

By Jason Reed | May 24, 2018

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Head coach Luke Walton of the Los Angeles Lakers watches action during Day One of the NBA Draft Combine at Quest MultiSport Complex on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

5. Keita Bates-Diop, F, Ohio State

The only player on this big board that is not a shooting guard or a center, Keita Bates-Diop presents an interesting dynamic for the Los Angeles Lakers if the team does not match an offer sheet that another team may offer Julius Randle.

Bates-Diop is a six-foot-nine forward that is a natural power forward but could progress into a small forward in the right system. Bates-Diop fits into the NBA perfectly as he can stretch the floor and can create his own shot as well as be a spot-up shooter.

His collegiate numbers were impressive, as Bates-Diop had a role in nearly every aspect of the game. The junior forward averaged 19.8 points per game to go along with 8.7 rebounds, 1.6 blocks and 1.6 assists.

What makes Bates-Diop a good selection for the Los Angeles Lakers is his experience. With Julius Randle gone, the Lakers are going to have to draft someone that they can throw in the fire behind Kyle Kuzma.

Playing three years of college basketball will make that transition easier and make Bates-Diop an immediate factor on offense. As we have often seen in late first-round picks, experienced college players are usually the way to go.

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