Jarrett Allen, C, Texas
If you really don’t think the Lakers could use another starting-caliber center, you’re living in a fantasy world. While I know that’s partly the point of this article, I’m not going to sugarcoat the fact that Los Angeles can’t rely on Timofey Mozgov moving forward.
Yes, I know Ivica Zubac showed a heaping pile of potential as a rookie. However, at this point, he’s anything but a guaranteed long-term starter. The Lakers need to hedge their bet by adding another high-upside playmaker like Allen who possesses more athleticism than any 6’11” man realistically should.
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I will admit that there are some significant concerns about Allen at the next level. His effort was inconsistent at times last year, and his overall game is still raw and unpolished. He will need some serious coaching at the next level, but the physical tools are there for him to be a star center in the near future.
Allen is a tremendous rebounder, using his size and length to win battles in the paint. His offensive game is a work in progress, but he definitely took strides in that department during his one season at Texas. One year under Shaka Smart helped Allen take significant steps forward in his development. Imagine what some professional work could do for his game.
Allen still has a lot of learning to do, which is why many see him as a mid-first round pick. However, if he were to somehow slide to the Lakers at No. 28, he’d be a worthwhile investment for a team that needs more options at center.