Los Angeles Lakers: Post-Combine 2018 NBA Draft big board
By Jason Reed
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.