Los Angeles Lakers land their dream prospect in 2017 NBA Mock Draft
By Nick Ziegler
If there is any team in the NBA that needs shooting, it is the Chicago Bulls. They will jump for joy if they are able to land Luke Kennard with the 16th pick.
Kennard is arguably the best shooter in this year’s draft. He has deep range on his three-point shot and is efficient doing it. He made 43.8 percent of his three-point shots as a sophomore. He made a huge jump in efficiency overall in his second season at Duke.
He improved to 19.5 points on 48.9 percent shooting, up from 11.8 and 42.1 as a freshman. His three point shooting also improved, as he shot only 32 percent as a freshman. In addition to the long range on his jumper, Kennard is successful playing in the mid-range. He also showcased his ability to handle the ball more and play pick-and-roll.
His high basketball IQ and diversity to score is what teams will be drafting him for. Kennard isn’t overly athletic and not the greatest defender. But, he can surely fill it up when given the chance. He could slide in nicely as a floor spreader in Chicago, even filling in as a backup point guard in a pinch.
The Bulls could have a hole at shooting guard depending on what Dwyane Wade does with his player option. If he leaves the Bulls will be left with a big hole. Kennard would be a good start at replacing Wade given his skill set.