With only hours left until the 2017 NBA Draft, who the Los Angeles Lakers will take with the second overall pick is still a mystery. UCLA point guard Lonzo Ball is still the favorite, but the Lakers have refused to give any promises.
Kansas forward Josh Jackson has long been rumored as a possibility, as has Kentucky point guard De’Aaron Fox and according to Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders, Fox is still under real consideration for the Lakers:
As of this afternoon Lakers still have not committed to Lonzo Ball (not uncommon) and indicated De'Aaron Fox still under real consideration
— Steve Kyler (@stevekylerNBA) June 22, 2017
Fox represents a completely different kind of player than Ball, even though they play the same position. Ball relies on his outstanding passing, shooting, and feel for the game. Fox meanwhile, is one of the fastest players in the class, an outstanding athlete, and fierce defender.
Of course, it is very possible that the Lakers are already locked in on exactly who they will take and are simply keeping everything close to the vest. That strategy is ideal forMagic Johnson, Rob Pelinka, and co. as the more mystery that surrounds their true intentions, the better.
Ball remains the best fit as his skillset matches up perfectly with head coach Luke Walton’s offensive system. The Lakers are in dire need of shooters, which is also a strength of Ball’s and his ability to make teammates better is a selling point.
