Los Angeles Lakers: Second round gems to target in 2018 NBA Draft

Hamidou Diallo, SG — Kentucky

A year ago, it would have seemed crazy to imagine Hamidou Diallo coming off the board in the second round. Prior to his decision to return to Kentucky, most folks had him mocked somewhere in the 15-25 range despite having never played a game of college basketball.

Then, he came back in 2017-18, and it was all downhill from there.

The former five-star recruit had a disastrous first season with the Wildcats. After beginning the year in a prominent role, he quickly fell out of favor as his raw, unrefined shooting abilities became all too apparent. By the beginning of February, his minutes had suffered a significant dip and his NBA stock was in free fall.

Now, it appears he could wait some time to hear his name called on June 21. Chances are the combine will help him remind teams why he was seen as a first round talent a year ago, but the film is damning evidence in how much work he still needs before he’s ready to see significant minutes at the next level.

Still, I see Diallo as a potential diamond in the rough. He’s an elite athlete who loves to play above the rim, offers intrigue as a slashing 2-guard and is a highlight waiting to happen in transition. He’s also a solid defender, and uses his ridiculous leaping abilities to make an impact on the boards.

Seriously, check out this kid’s otherworldly explosiveness:

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Diallo may be a ways off from tapping his absurd potential. For the discounted price of the No. 47 overall pick, though, the Lakers would be getting a ridiculous bargain on a player who could turn out to be an impact two-way threat with some NBA coaching.