Los Angeles Lakers: Five players to target if they trade down
By Matt Leaman
![Feb 11, 2017; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) reacts after scoring against the Clemson Tigers in the second half of their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports Feb 11, 2017; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) reacts after scoring against the Clemson Tigers in the second half of their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/4d99d0154bf4e2f235a89bb5dc1532517bdcd7ba85f9a37ef54cd3828d197b31.jpg)
Luke Kennard
Luke Kennard, from Duke, would be a great addition to this Lakers team. Kennard, a shooting guard who stands at 6’6″ weighing 195 pounds, is an interesting possibility. Mock drafts have the combo guard going anywhere between 12-16 in the first round.
Kennard is an excellent shooter from mid-range and behind the three-point line as well. This past season at Duke he averaged 19.5 points, 2.5 assists, and 5.1 rebounds to go along with just 1.6 turnovers a game. He protects the ball which is another strength of his game.
His 43.8% three-point percentage helped him improve drastically from his freshmen to sophomore year at Duke. He went from 31.8% his first year to 43.8% his second go around for the Blue Devils.
To go along with his steady three-point shooting, Kennard can score off the dribble and attack the basket as well. Attacking smaller guards will be a distinct advantage for him as he adjusts to the NBA game. He will be able to play the 1 and 2 at the next level and would be a player with a lot of upside to add to this Lakers young group.