With the 2017 NBA Draft just hours away, Chad Ford of ESPN.com recently did his final mock draft. Who did he have the Los Angeles Lakers selecting second overall?
The 2017 NBA Draft is nearly here, and as of now, the Los Angeles Lakers still have the second overall pick in the draft.
Since the Philadelphia 76ers traded for the first overall pick, we know that they will be selecting Markelle Fultz from Washington. This means that the Lakers will be able to take Lonzo Ball like many have expected throughout the draft process.
While there has been some talk about Josh Jackson and De’Aaron Fox, Chad Ford of ESPN.com has them going with Ball when they are on the clock. Here’s what Ford had to say in his final mock draft.
"The Lakers started sending signals over the weekend that Ball was going to be their guy if they kept this pick. The trade of D’Angelo Russell to the Nets is yet another piece of evidence that Ball is coming.Ball is a great fit in L.A., and probably an even better fit with Russell changing coasts. His elite court vision and ability to make everyone around him better are highly valued by the Lakers, and they should be. He has a funky shot and is a poor defender right now, but neither of those issues should eclipse what a wizard he can be on the offensive end.The only thing that derails this scenario now is if the Lakers feel as if they have to part with the No. 2 pick to get Paul George."
Ford does bring up the possibility that the Lakers could trade the second overall pick for Paul George. In recent days, we have heard that the Lakers have been trying to acquire George from the Indiana Pacers.
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Since George has stated that he plans on leaving the Pacers to test free agency after the season, they have lost a lot of leverage. Also, he said that he would prefer to play for the Lakers after becoming a free agent. While George is a great player, the Lakers would be foolish to give up the second overall pick in a package to get him.
Furthermore, expect to see the Lakers call Ball’s name when they are on the clock.