Los Angeles Lakers: 5 options for pick No. 47 in 2018 NBA Draft

5. Chimezie Metu, PF/C — USC

Chimezie Metu grew up in Lawndale, California, near the Lakers’ practice facility in El Segundo. He played his college ball at USC, down the street from Staples Center.

If the athletic big man is available at No. 47, there’s a good chance the Lakers will scoop him up.

It’s safe to say that Metu is excited about the prospect of joining his favorite team growing up. After his recent workout with the Lakers, Metu shared his excitement with J. Brady McCollough of the LA Times.

"“I lived 10 minutes from here, been a Laker fan my whole life. Just being in here is crazy to me, you know? I’m probably going to have a lot more workouts, but this is going to be my favorite one, one I’m going to cherish a lot more.”"

Two years ago as a sophomore, Metu was named the 2017 Pac-12 Most Improved Player of the Year. Last season as a junior , he averaged 15.7 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game. The 21-year-old still has room to grow and has some real raw potential.

Most mock drafts have Metu going in the middle of the second round. The Ringer predicts he’ll be drafted at No. 43, while Jeremy Woo of Sports Illustrated thinks he’ll go 51st. With the Lakers drafting near the middle of the second round, there’s a possibility Metu will be available.