Los Angeles Lakers: 4 players to consider drafting if they keep picks 27 and 28

Feb 13, 2016; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears forward Ivan Rabb (1) is called for a foul against Oregon State Beavers forward Tres Tinkle (3) during the second half at Haas Pavilion. The California Golden Bears defeated the Oregon State Beavers 83-71. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 13, 2016; Berkeley, CA, USA; California Golden Bears forward Ivan Rabb (1) is called for a foul against Oregon State Beavers forward Tres Tinkle (3) during the second half at Haas Pavilion. The California Golden Bears defeated the Oregon State Beavers 83-71. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Los Angeles Lakers
Feb 20, 2017; Morgantown, WV, USA; Texas Longhorns forward Jarrett Allen (31) dunks the ball during the first half against the West Virginia Mountaineers at WVU Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Ben Queen-USA TODAY Sports /

Jarrett Allen 6’11” Texas

This would be a major win for the Lakers if they can draft him late in the first round because he was considered to be a lottery-level prospect leading up until the combine and workout circuit. With a seven-foot-six wingspan and athleticism at 19 years old, Allen’s potential is unlimited but because of the natural traits, he should be able to contribute to the Lakers second unit.

In Allen’s lone season at Texas, he averaged 32 minutes and scored 13 points with over eight rebounds per game. A defensive possession is not complete unless the rebound is secured off a miss. He has one of the largest pair hands in this draft class, which should aid him in transferring his collegiate rebounding prowess to the NBA hardwood, this is key for the Lakers to get going on the fast break.

Having a player with a high motor and ability to run back on defense in a hurry is a necessity for the fast-paced Lakers. This is something they have lacked in recent seasons. His 35.5 max vertical leap should be enough to intimidate those who dare test him in the paint.