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

Mar 24, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) drives to the basket past Kentucky Wildcats guard De'Aaron Fox (0) in the second half during the semifinals of the South Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /

6 of 6

Mar 17, 2017; Sacramento, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) passes the ball against the Kent State Golden Flashes in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

The favorite to go second overall in the 2017 NBA Draft is UCLA point guard Lonzo Ball. There is growing speculation that Washington point guard Markelle Fultz will be the first overall selection to the Celtics. The Lakers will be okay with that, as Ball is their guy.

Lonzo’s father, LaVar Ball, has been vocal about wanting his son to go to the Lakers. He has been saying it for months that Lonzo will only play for the Lakers, and it looks like his wishes will come true.

It would be a pretty big upset if Ball isn’t wearing purple and gold. The only reason he wouldn’t be is if the Celtics (or a team that trades for the No. 1 overall pick) snags him. Even that is unlikely, as Ball will not be working out for anyone but the Lakers, according to his father.

The feeling is mutual from the Lakers to Ball. They are reportedly enamored with the UCLA product. He has the biggest star potential in this year’s draft class and would be a homegrown product after playing high school basketball in California and playing college ball at nearby Pauley Pavilion.

Next: 2017 NBA Mock Draft: Post-Lottery edition

Ball brings a lot to the table that the Lakers would like. He has great court vision and range on his jump shot. His addition would enable the Lakers to move D’Angelo Russell to shooting guard full-time and give them their backcourt for the future.

Home/Los Angeles Lakers