5 projected late lottery picks Lakers should steal if they slide to No. 17

Ron Holland II, G League Ignite

Ron Holland II is a potential top-10 draft pick who no one seems to know how to place on a big board. The talent is undeniable, but his lack of refinement as an outside shooter has some questioning his fit in the modern era.

If that fear ultimately leads to Holland sliding beyond the lottery, the Los Angeles Lakers would have a chance to add a player who is upside personified.

Holland is still just 18 years of age, which is a significant reason that teams are so interested in gambling on his potential. It's also why it's doubtful that he'll slide beyond the lottery, as teams are more likely to take a chance on a promising player in a draft class that lacks star power.

Holland showcased the potential that has teams interested in him by averaging 20.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.5 steals per G League regular season game in 2023-24.

At the 2024 NBA Draft Combine, Holland measured at 6'6.5" without shoes and 197 pounds with a near 6'11" wingspan. That's another reason many are finding it easy to look beyond his erratic shooting, as he combines a well-rounded two-way game with prototypical measurements.

This is a definite long shot, but Jonathan Givony of ESPN lists Holland as the No. 11 prospect in this class. A player in that range could potentially slide to the No. 17 pick on draft night.