8. Jordan Clarkson
Jordan Clarkson was a product of Lakers’ exceptional scouting department. One of many.
He was selected in 2014 in the second round at 46 out of Missouri, with a pick they expressly bought from the Washington Wizards to draft him.
In his first season, Clarkson was a revelation, taking off in January averaging 15.8 points, 4.2 rebounds and five assists as a starter.
After Jeremy Lin did not meet the expectation and with Lakers’ season irreparably lost, coach Byron Scott, known for developing point guards like Chris Paul and Kyrie Irving, gave JC his chance at the point and left him to explore his talents for the rest of the season.
Clarkson developed for the following years blossoming in a reliable scorer both starting and off the bench, averaging 14.9 points for the next two and a half seasons before being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in an effort to free up cap space for max free agents.
Clarkson was one of the icons of Lakers’ rebuilding, as the symbol of their ability to find talent late in the draft and develop young players.
Clarkson always showed up ready to battle every single night and fight for even the smallest chance to get a win. His attitude was very appreciated by Lakers’ organization and seeing him go away was very hard for fans who had learned to appreciate the 25-year-old for his drive, relentlessness and skills.