Los Angeles Lakers: 3 latest rumors on trade talks, draft plans
De’Aaron Fox a legitimate option at No. 2
Since the Lakers were gifted the No. 2 overall pick via the draft lottery, it was assumed the pick would be spent on Lonzo Ball. However, as we inch our way closer to draft day, it’s starting to appear that Los Angeles’ selection isn’t so clear cut.
Apparently, De’Aaron Fox has entered the mix as a consideration for the second pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. The Lakers are set to work out the Kentucky point guard, according to the L.A. Daily News’ Mark Medina:
Not surprising: De'Aaron Fox plans to work out for Lakers and Sixers. Lakers' workout likely to happen mid-June (week of 11-17)
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) May 27, 2017
Now some folks may wonder why the Lakers would consider straying away from Ball. In most opinions, he’s easily one of the top two talents in the 2017 draft class, with some even putting him ahead of Washington’s Markelle Fultz. However, as we should all know by now, he comes with his fair share of issues.
As I previously pointed out, Ball isn’t a perfect prospect. He isn’t a great defender (just ask Fox), he struggles with physicality and he has a headache for a father. The Lakers could easily opt for Fox, who offers more athleticism and no parental problems. Although his shooting isn’t as appealing as Ball’s, the lack of off-court concerns definitely has to be weighing on Johnson and co.
A lot can change between now and June 22. At this moment, though, it appears Fox is giving the Lakers something to seriously ponder with the No. 2 pick.