Lakers Mock Draft List, #7 Pick
By Mike Garcia
Mar 21, 2014; Raleigh, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Rodney Hood (5) shoots the ball against Mercer Bears forward Bud Thomas (5) in the first half of a men
9. Rodney Hood – The Lakers desperately need a shooter, let alone, a player mature enough offensively to contribute. Rodney Hood is that kind of player. He’s simply a dynamic shooter in terms of spot-up situations, off-the-dribble, floaters, off screens, and as a pick-and-roll initiator. That is NBA level skill. He has above average height forward the small forward spot and also a solid athlete. He needs work defensively, and is an average rebounder at best, but if he fulfills his potential, he may be a Klay Thompson–type of player with more height. Who wouldn’t want that? Isn’t that the kind of guy a franchise can build around?
10. Dario Saric – Saric is the most versatile player of the draft. He’s 6’10”, yet has the passing skills and court vision of a point guard. He’s able to shoot from mid-range and behind the arc fairly well. He can face up in post situations, as well as back a defender down. He excels in transition as well as halfcourt situations. Defensively, there a question marks. His wingspan is average at best, and has the lateral speed of a center. Still, he puts out great energy defensively in spurts and gets by on the defensive end by being an above average rebounder. He can be a match-up nightmare and a future All-Star as well. He is just that skilled.