Los Angeles Lakers get high mark in complete 2017 NBA Draft first round grades
LONZO BALL. A. . Point Guard. Los Angeles Lakers
Lady luck was the Lakers side during the 2017 NBA Draft Lottery. They turned that luck into star UCLA point guard, Lonzo Ball. Ball’s father, LaVar Ball, was trying his best to speak it into reality and it came to fruition tonight.
With D’Angelo Russell on his way to the Brooklyn Nets, Ball should immediately step in as the Lakers starting point guard. Ball led the nation in assists during his lone season at UCLA. He averaged 7.7 assists per game, the third-most for a freshman in the history of college basketball. His passing will be welcomed in Los Angeles, as it is at an elite level; he is efficient in every aspect of the game.
Ball also has range on his three-point shot. The Lakers offense will be greatly improved with a bonafide point guard in Ball leading the way. He possesses the poise and leadership abilities that a team wants in a point guard.
Ball does have some work to do defensively. But, with his size, he has the versatility to play and defend either backcourt spot, which should make him easier to hide.
The Lakers are a better team already with the moves they have made thus far. If they are able to land Paul George, they will instantly become playoff contenders in the Western Conference.