Zhou Qi
Fit: Good
Future Potential: Great
Immediate Impact: Low
Availability: Unlikely
The last center that will be discussed here is not quite as good of a fit as the previous two, but still has intriguing upside and potential. Zhou Qi is a 7-foot-2 center with impressive range on his jump-shot. With a nearly 7-foot-8 wingspan, Qi has the potential to develop into a terrifying presence at the rim.
Qi’s main problem is his extremely slender frame and lack of elite athleticism. He is definitely not physically ready to play the five in the NBA. That said, he moves well for his size, and is young enough to grow into his body at the NBA level. His shooting prowess and length gives him the potential to grow into one of the steals of this draft.
Related Story: Watch Zhou Qi Pre-Draft Workout Video
Malcolm Brogdon
Fit: Good
Future Potential: Solid
Immediate Impact: Moderate
Availability: Likely
If the Lakers opt not to use their second round pick on a center, they will most likely be looking for a defensive minded player in the back-court. Malcolm Brogdon fits this profile perfectly, and could develop into a standout three and D player at the next level.
Brogdon’s length and athleticism limit his potential and versatility however, as he will most likely never become a featured scorer. Selecting him would also mean that the Lakers had basically given up on Anthony Brown, who played a very similar role in college. However, Brogdon was nearly a 40 percent three-point shooter in college, and an NBA team can always use more shooters.
Next: Gary Payton II