Los Angeles Lakers: Ranking team’s top needs during 2018 NBA Draft

1. Backup point guard

Potential fits: Jalen Brunson, Jevon Carter, Shake MIlton

Let’s be honest: Tyler Ennis is not the answer behind Ball.

As great as the Lakers’ young offensive conductor has the potential to be, he can’t be on the court for all 48 minutes of all 82 games (plus the playoffs). Ball battled injuries throughout his rookie season, limiting him to 34.2 minutes per game in 52 appearances. When he wasn’t available, Los Angeles suffered because it didn’t have an exceptional No. 2 to run the show.

Ennis has always been a replacement-level player. Sure, he makes solid plays every once in a while and drains the occasional 3-pointer. Overall, though, he’s nothing special. That’s evidenced by the fact that he’s been on four different teams in as many seasons. He’s stuck around because the Lakers didn’t have better options. It’s time to fix that.

With one of their picks, the Lakers need to address the point guard position. This class is loaded with underrated, experienced options who can step in and earn a role early. Jalen Brunson seems to be a fan favorite in the first round, but I think waiting until pick No. 47 to land Jevon Carter may be the Lakers’ best bet.

Next: Bold predictions for Lakers during 2018 draft

Either way, the point guard position cannot be ignored. Unless the Lakers plan on adding a veteran during free agency, it’ll be imperative for them to find a capable backup who can soak up minutes if Ball can’t stay healthy again as a sophomore.