Best-Case Scenario
The Lakers will enter the draft with two glaring needs: a two-way player on the wing and a rim-protector, preferably one who can provide offense as well. A defensive-minded guard would be a solid choice as well, although that need isn’t nearly as pressing as the other two.
Fortunately for the Lakers, they will be in perfect position to fill both of those needs in the draft. With the second-overall pick, they will have the chance to select either Ben Simmons or Brandon Ingram. Because of Ingram’s fit and personality, the best case scenario would be for the Sixers to choose Simmons and allow Ingram to fall to the Lakers.
must watch: Brandon Ingram Pre-Draft Workout, Interview (Video)
While Simmons would still be a huge win for the Lakers, concerns about his jump shot and motivation put him slightly below the well-rounded Ingram in my estimation. However, as long as the Lakers choose one of the top-two talents in this spot they will be receiving a great player.
In the second round, the best-case scenario for the Lakers would be to dip into this draft’s deep pool of centers. While there may be several available at the time they make their second selection, A.J. Hammons may be the best option. A dominant rim protector in college, Hammons also possesses an NBA ready body, three-point range, and solid athleticism.
The only true downside with Hammons is his age. At 23 years old, the seven-footer is one of the oldest players in the draft. However, this hasn’t discouraged the Lakers before with Larry Nance Jr. and Jordan Clarkson both being similar ages at the time they were drafted. Ultimately Hammons two-way impact and offensive versatility should make him the choice here.
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In an absolutely best-case scenario (but one that is not at all likely) the Lakers could make a trade to acquire a pick in the second half of the first round. Ideally, this trade would include Nick Young, with Lou Williams providing the value and would possibly need to include the second round pick as well. This would put the Lakers into position to take higher upside player like Thon Maker, although it’s not clear that he would be a better pick than Hammons. Damian Jones would be another option in this range, and would most likely give the Lakers better value than Maker.
Adding another pick in this draft while removing dead-weight from the roster would definitely make this draft an unmitigated success. While the addition of Lou Williams to a deal may hurt the team slightly on offense, an additional selection would be more than worth it, especially if Nick Young is thrown in as well.
The team should also look into purchasing a pick in this draft, as several teams have more picks than they need. The Celtics, for instance, have eight picks in this years draft, including five in the second round. Obviously, not all of these players can make the roster, so the Celtics will be looking to deal. The Lakers could be able to acquire a pick in the early second for nothing more than cash considerations from a team in a similar situation.
Ultimately a draft consisting of Brandon Ingram and A.J. Hammons should be considered a huge step forward for the team. Trading up to acquire Damian Jones, or purchasing a later pick to get a defensive guard, would both be brilliant moves, but are not required for this draft to be a win. The team will be in a position to get significantly better without taking any major gambles, which is a luxury the team should take full advantage of.
Next: Worst Case Scenario