Lakers Draft Prospects: Thon Maker Breakdown

By Jeremy Rucker | Apr 5, 2016

May 10, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; General view of the Staples Center exterior before game four of the second round of the 2014 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Anaheim Ducks. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mental Makeup

Of all the positive news to come from the Maker camp this past year, it’s been the testimonials of his competitive fire and high motor that have gotten scouts once again curious of his draft pedigree. After his impressive showing in July, those monitering the teen’s professional ambitions changed their tune.

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Franchilla proclaimed that he’s “never not seen him play hard” and even suggested he’d be a lottery pick in 2016. Indeed, many have cited his improvement from earlier in 2015 to his hard work and desire to play in the NBA.

While the uncertainty surrounding his recruitment plans and his unexpected draft announcement have concerned some, Maker seems to be doing everything he can to legitimize himself as a prized possession in this year’s draft.

Still, we just don’t know a lot about how he holds up under high-pressure situations, since we’ve never seen him in crunch time of a nationally televised NCAA game or a nail-biting NBA finish. As is the case with all high-school prospects, maturity and professionalism will certainly be a compelling factor in his overall assessment.

There will be much more to know more once he begins workouts in a couple of weeks, and how he responds to the bright lights of national media coverage will be an indicator of his demeanor and preparedness for basketball’s biggest stage.

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