Los Angeles Lakers: Early look at realistic NBA Draft options at No. 25

Jalen Brunson, PG, Villanova

If Shamet isn’t the answer to the Lakers’ backcourt depth problem, maybe Jalen Brunson is. A former teammate of Josh Hart at Villanova, the experienced point guard is coming off a national championship run that certainly helped his draft stock.

It’s not just Villanova’s March dominance that has Brunson in the NBA Draft conversation, though. Much like Shamet, he isn’t an elite athlete and isn’t going to light up the scoreboard on a regular basis. However, he’s an intelligent floor general who does a great job of creating opportunities for his teammates while chipping in the occasion basket or five.

On top of that, Brunson is a proven leader and winner. You also have to love the added chemistry he’ll have from Day 1 with Hart. He may not be a home run by any stretch of the imagination, but he’d give the Lakers some quality depth at point guard and leadership off the bench.

There are some obvious disadvantages, though. Brunson falls short in the measurables — he’s small, has short arms and doesn’t possess much explosiveness. Although he can create off the dribble, Brunson tends to get himself in trouble too often, leading to unnecessary turnovers. His defense is solid, but he’s going to have a tough time keeping speedier, more athletic point guards in check at the next level.

Regardless of the Hart connection, Brunson will be a consideration for the Lakers if he’s still available at No. 25.