2017 NBA Draft: 3 options for Los Angeles Lakers at No. 28 overall
OG Anunoby, SF, Indiana
Right now, there’s a very wide range that OG Anunoby is expected to come off the board. While I’ve seen him mentioned as a possible late-lottery selection, I’ve also seen him sliding to the end of the first round. Chances are slim he’s available at No. 28, but it’s not impossible.
If he is available, the Lakers would be wise to think long and hard about calling his name.
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Anunoby has earned a lot of attention among scouting circles for his outstanding defensive skills. He has the makings of a lockdown defender, and his decision to stay in school one extra year helped him develop in that department. We’ve seen how big of an impact he can make on defense, and we all know the Lakers could use an upgrade in that department.
Realistically, there are two problems with Anunoby that could force him to fall on draft day.
The first is his lack of offensive prowess. Anunoby struggles to create his own shot, and isn’t great at using the dribble to find opportunities. His shooting is also a work in progress, as he has a tough time consistently sinking jumpers and isn’t a reliable threat from three-point range. If he’s going to excel at the next level, he needs to develop a more dependable game on the offensive end.
The other issue is his medical concerns. Anunoby suffered a torn ACL back in January, which will obviously make some teams wary. His draft stock will likely come down to how his knee checks out prior to the draft.
Next: Redrafting Lakers' last 3 lottery picks
All in all, Anunoby is an intriguing option in the second half of the first round. If he slides due to his offensive limitations and rehabbing knee, don’t be surprised to see the Lakers jump at the opportunity to add a defensive-minded combo forward to complement Brandon Ingram.