2. Jaylin Williams
Without a doubt, the Lakers lacked a real enforcer from their center position. Other teams would take advantage of this and score in the paint at will when Anthony Davis wasn’t on the court. Even when Davis was on the court, this would be exposed. The now-former Razorback Jaylin Williams could help fill that role. Williams is known for his hustle and grit on the court. Williams averaged just shy of a double-double on the season with 10.9 PPG and 9.8 RPG.
Williams also possesses some playmaking ability averaging 2.6 APG. That may not sound like a lot, but if you keep in mind that only five players averaged six or more assists and that Williams is a center, this is actually a pretty decent amount. His 2.6 APG ranked in the top 20 of all SEC players.
The Lakers lacked energy on the defensive end, and that’s what Williams can bring. He has been described as a player that will give it his all and make the extra effort for the team. He’s a tough defender with his 6-10 frame. He’s the type of player where you might not see his impact on the stat sheet, but he is impacting the game.
Williams has fallen through the cracks a bit due to his inefficient shooting. However, The Lakers don’t really need him to be a scorer. Williams can be effective on the offensive side of the ball through his screens.
Williams has a knack for setting well-placed screens that help his team score. If you add the defense and hustle this kid brings, he could do wonders for the Lakers.
He ranks 45th on the consensus big board, so he should be there in the second round.