Los Angeles Lakers: 5 options for pick No. 2 in 2017 NBA Draft

5. Malik Monk, SG, Kentucky

If the Lakers want to add a go-to scoring threat in their backcourt there aren’t any better options in this year’s class than Malik Monk. Monk is easily the best shooting guard and most gifted scorer in this year’s draft. The biggest knock against Monk is his size.

Monk stands only 6’3″, making him a prototypical tweener. Selecting a tweener this high in the draft would be a huge risk, but there are few players that can score with ease like Monk can.

Monk is a relentless scorer and can score in a multitude of ways. He can create his own shot, knock down three-pointers and can get going in a hurry. Just look at highlights from his games against North Carolina, Ole Miss, Georgia and Florida; he scored at least 33 points in all four games.

The Lakers would be an intriguing landing spot for Monk because they could use his strengths. They have bigger guards in D’Angelo Russell and Jordan Clarkson that can be paired with Monk. Monk has the tools to be a good defender, but his size limits how many positions he could defend.

If Monk was two or three inches taller he would be a no-brainer top pick. His scoring prowess is outstanding, but he could be destined for a sixth man role because of his size. If Monk can show that he is capable of running the show as a point guard, his career could take a turn for the better.

The Lakers would not need Monk to develop strictly as a point guard. His scoring would be a bonus right away as he could be eased into a starting role with the other options the Lakers already have at their disposal in the backcourt.