Los Angeles Lakers: 5 options for pick No. 2 in 2017 NBA Draft
4. Jonathan Isaac, SF/PF, Florida State
While Josh Jackson is considered the best forward prospect in the draft by many, the second-best one is up for debate. There is a lot to like about Duke’s Jayson Tatum and Florida State’s Jonathan Isaac. For the Lakers, Isaac would probably be the selection.
Tatum brings a lot to the table. He is arguably the most NBA-ready prospect in this draft. But he does not have the same size and length that Isaac possesses. If Isaac adds 15-20 pounds to his frame and some strength, the Lakers could have a true monster in the frontcourt on their hands.
More from Los Angeles Lakers
- NBA Trades: The Lakers bolster their frontcourt in this deal with the Pacers
- A surprise LeBron ranking should raise alarm bells for the Lakers
- Surprising Austin Reaves contract detail confirms Lakers got him for a steal
- Instant Grades for the Lakers’ unprecedented Anthony Davis extension
- Report: Lakers have big plans for recent top-10 pick amid roster shakeup
Standing 6’11”, Isaac already has the height to play power forward. He is listed as a small forward, as he is athletic enough to play on the perimeter. That kind of versatility is tough to come by. Isaac can not only protect the rim, but he can defend smaller, quicker players on the perimeter as well.
From the start, Isaac’s defense can get him on the court. Offensively he needs some work, but he already has the range shoot from the three-point line and has shown an ability to get his own shot. Consistency is needed on his jump shot, but the tools are there.
If Isaac has good workouts he could move his way up into the top-three discussion. He should thrive in the current NBA landscape without positions and with plenty of small-ball.
ESPN’s analytics team actually has Isaac as the best player in this year’s draft class. He is very skilled for a player of his size, and whoever lands him will be getting a very versatile forward with a ton of potential.