Los Angeles Lakers: Low-risk, high-reward NBA Draft targets at No. 47

Chimezie Metu, PF/C — USC

I’ve been pounding the table for the Lakers to target Chimezie Metu for months. Why stop now?

Honestly, I’m rather surprised the former Trojan is seen as a second round prospect at this point. I know he didn’t quite live up to the hype during his three years at USC, but the amount of physical tools and athleticism he brings to the frontcourt is too overwhelming to ignore.

Metu just needs the right coaching staff to whip him into shape. He dealt with off-court issues and inconsistent play at times during his college career. However, when he’s on top of his game, he brings an intriguing two-way approach to the floor. Not only can he make an impact on the defensive end, but he’s a high-upside offensive weapon as well.

Metu is big enough to slide in as a power forward or center. Although he hasn’t quite developed a reliable outside shot, he’s got a solid mid-range jumper and the quickness to create his own opportunities in the paint.

https://twitter.com/Lakers/status/994289901754503168

A lifelong Lakers fan and Los Angeles native, Metu seems like the perfect target for the Lakers at No. 47. If Julius Randle isn’t in the plans moving forward, the player with the third-most blocks in USC basketball history has to be a legitimate target.