The Warriors are the newest champions in the NBA. With the exception of Andre Iguodala, most of their key players were drafted by the Warriors. Steph Curry was the 7th overall pick in 2009. Klay Thompson was chosen 11th overall in the 2011 draft, but it was the 2012 draft that brought the Warriors three key players.
-== Best Lakers Draft Pick & Free Agent Pairings ==-
Harrison Barnes was the prized pick at number seven, but Festus Ezeli was picked up with the 30th pick in the first round and their best selection that year was Draymond Green at 35th overall. It’s possible to find players later in the draft, they just have to scout well and hope that luck is on their side.
The NBA Draft is on Thursday and the Lakers will continue hosting workout up until Wednesday. According to Mark Medina of the LA Daily News, the Lakers will hold workouts for the 27th and 34th picks on Monday and Wednesday:
D'Angelo Russell had his 2nd workout today w/ Lakers, this one closed. Lakers will have more workouts for 27th and 34th picks on Mon & Wed
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) June 21, 2015
It was mentioned earlier that the Lakers might want to get rid of the 27th selection, but unless they are trying to move up in the draft, it’s a mistake to simply dispose of the pick. The Lakers could add two solid players that in time could develop into valuable pieces.
The Lakers are not a team that builds through the draft, but they haven’t had much success in free agency either, so might as well take advantage of the 27th and 34th picks. If the Lakers are fortunate, they might find a diamond in the rough, just like Jordan Clarkson.