Although the NBA Finals are ongoing, the Los Angeles Lakers are already amid an offseason in which every moment calls for a crucial choice. Between finding a new head coach, awaiting key decisions on player options, and the mercurial 2024 NBA Draft, the Lakers are hoping for the perfect storm.
While much remains beyond its control, opportunities exist for Los Angeles to improve its short-term and long-term potential.
The shortlist of players for the Lakers to consider at No. 17 is coming together, but the process to find the right fit won't end until the pick is in. Los Angeles, of course, is in desperate need of depth and promise on a roster that features aging superstars and a surplus of minimum contracts.
Some might suggest that the Lakers should subsequently play it safe at the 2024 NBA Draft, but finding the right fit beyond the lottery is a complex process.
Oftentimes, it's the players that most don't see coming that make the biggest impact of all. Some might complain that a team reached for a player on draft night, but when a franchise identifies the perfect fit, outside noise becomes irrelevant.
For the Lakers, they must not be afraid to reach, whether slightly or significantly, if the ideal prospect comes about on draft night. These five players could fit the bill.
1. Carlton Carrington, Point Guard
Carlton Carrington has the upside of to become one of the best players in this draft class. Standing at just under 6'4" and 195 pounds with a 6'8" wingspan, Carrington is a cut above the prototype from a measurement perspective for an NBA point guard.
An aggressive scorer who's the proper refinement away from finding his place as a force of nature, Carrington could be the dream selection at No. 17 overall.
Carrington has a quicker first step than what he showed at the Combine, and he utilizes it to attack closeouts and get into the paint. It's also worth noting that he has decent form on his jump shot, thus suggesting that he simply needs time to adjust to the speed of the game.
There were signs of progress during his freshman season, as Carrington shot 38.9 percent from beyond the arc on 6.0 attempts per game over the final 12 outings of Pittsburgh's season.
Carrington is also a 78.5 percent free throw shooter, thus strengthening the notion that his shot is stronger than it seems. Percentages should also be qualified, as he's more fearless than the average player in this draft class, showing a willingness to take difficult shots near the end of the clock.
This is an upside selection, as Carrington has flaws that could prevent him from realizing his potential, but the Lakers could help him develop into a high-level starter or sixth man.