Lakers News: ESPN Mock Draft Has Emmanuel Mudiay To LA

Just outside a week from the NBA draft and I’m officially in crisis control. Dreams are encapsulated by ping pong balls rolling behind as I run just fast enough to stay out of harm’s way. I’m probably sick and I’ll seek counseling as soon as the Lakers keep their first round pick.

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Monday, ESPN’s Jeff Goodman released his latest mock draft, in which the Lakers select Emmanuel Mudiay fourth overall. His analysis:

Mudiay is a largely unknown entity among fans, as he spent last year in China. There are a few highlight reels (see below) but reading into clips edited to show a player in his brightest light rarely equates to full, in-depth analysis.

Goodman mentions the “subpar competition,” but as you’ll see, they defend in China as if everyone is already in foul trouble.

Now, Goodman, also brings up Jordan Clarkson‘s impressive rookie campaign. Given the limited space, he couldn’t get completely into how that affects the Lakers’ selection, but he hit the important part. In no way should Clarkson’s season affect the Lakers’ plans. Drafting for need is a great way to hinder rebuilds.

Not to mention the fact that the two can easily play together for stretches, at least. Two big guards who can both handle the ball gives plenty of flexibility for ball movement, so long as both Clarkson and Mudiay develop consistent jump shots.

Again, though, none of this speculation means anything until lottery night has passed and the Lakers still have their pick. So I guess that means eight more nights of that ping pong ball running me down.

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