D’Angelo Russell (6’5″ 175 lbs)
One look at Russell’s game and it’s clear he’s going to be a star. Not your typical athletic freak, he has a maturity that surpasses his age. With great shooting and passing ability, he’s hard to guard especially in a pick and roll situation. Although a skilled shooter, Russell isn’t afraid to find an open teammate who has a better shot.
Russell can play both guard positions and he could fit nicely with Jordan Clarkson in the backcourt. These days in the NBA, guards have to be able to shoot as well as distribute and that’s exactly what Russell can do. As a freshman at Ohio State he carried a heavy scoring load, but if drafted by the Lakers he could study under Kobe Bryant and transition into the role of scorer at a comfortable pace. Russell’s basketball IQ is far ahead of his age, which makes him a strong pick up in the Top 5.
Next: The Wildcard