2018 NBA Draft: Dream targets for Los Angeles Lakers at No. 25

Zhaire Smith, SG/SF — Texas Tech

With Kentavious Caldwell-Pope potentially departing via free agency, the Lakers could be in search of a new 2-guard this offseason. While Josh Hart could easily step into the starting role, Luke Walton may prefer to retain him as one of the key components of the second unit.

One potential solution is Texas Tech’s Zhaire Smith. That is, if the Lakers can even get their hands on him. The quick-rising guard used the 2018 NCAA Tournament to skyrocket his way up draft boards, using his high-flying athleticism and knack for putting up big points to carry the Red Raiders to the Elite Eight.

Now, he finds himself nearly guaranteed to hear his name called during the first round. The problem is that, as the pre-draft process goes along, he could work his way out of the Lakers’ reach.

At this point, landing Smith is more of a pipe dream than landing Robinson. While Robinson’s stock is all over the board due to his raw talent and a year away from the game, Smith seems clearly entrenched in the No. 15-20 range based on the numerous mock drafts I’ve seen.

Still, a lot can change between now and June 21. If Smith has a bad draft combine performance or other players have excellent combine performances, he could slide on draft day. That could open the door for the Lakers to land Smith at No. 25.