1. Jaylen Brown – Cal
Whenever the scenario of the Lakers keeping their first round pick is brought up, it seems like 95 percent of the conversation that ensues assumes that the Lakers would be picking at the No. 1 or No. 2 spots and taking either Ben Simmons or Brandon Ingram. However, the Lakers would also hold onto their pick if it falls to No. 3, which is where they might be inclined to select Cal Golden Bears freshman Jaylen Brown.
Much like his team as a whole, Brown has been plagued by inconsistency throughout his first season at Cal. That being said, he’s still managed to be productive and show flashes of his potential as he’s put up 15 points, 5.5 rebounds, and two assists per game while shooting 43.5 percent from the floor in 27.9 minutes per contest. What’s better, Brown has showcased his outstanding arsenal of physical gifts throughout the season at just 19 years old.
Next: Lakers Draft Prospects: The Case Against Ben Simmons
Though he might be a tier below Simmons and Ingram, Brown is merely a half step below those guys at the most. He’s supremely talented and the Lakers should undoubtedly know what they’re getting into if they’re into a position to select him with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft.