Los Angeles Lakers: 2018 NBA Draft grades
By Dan Lovi
No. 25: Moritz Wagner, Michigan
The Lakers seemed to have one thing in mind with their selection of Moe Wagner: shooting.
The 21-year-old big man from Michigan led the Wolverines in points and rebounds his junior year, averaging 14.6 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. He shot 39 percent from beyond the arc while connecting on 1.6 3-point shots per contest.
Standing 6’11”, Wagner could fit well in today’s NBA as a pick-and-pop shooter who can space out the floor. Whether he’s on the court as a power forward or center, Wagner’s main asset will be drawing the opposing big man out of the paint.
Wagner was born in Germany and started playing professional basketball at the age of 14 for Alba Berlin, a top professional team there.
He decided to forgo his professional career in Europe and attended Michigan, helping the Wolverines reach the NCAA Tournament his three years in Ann Arbor. He was an integral part of the Wolverines’ run to the NCAA championship game last year, and was the only non-Villanova player to be named to the Final Four all-tournament team.
His biggest concern comes on the defensive end, as he isn’t known as a prominent defender, especially for a player with his size. Wagner averaged only 0.5 blocks per game his junior year.
Despite his lack of defensive prowess, the Lakers currently have a depleted roster and need Wagner to be ready to play from day one.
Walton on Wagner: “We feel like he’s going to be able to come in right away and help our team. We’re building a culture here, and he adds a lot … we were really excited he was there." Walton cited two great workouts Wagner had and a terrific interview in addition to the tape.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) June 22, 2018
Depending on what happens with Julius Randle (restricted free agent) and Brook Lopez (unrestricted), Wagner could potentially see significant minutes at the power forward and center positions.
His playing time also depends on which free agents the Lakers are able to sign. If LeBron James ends up in L.A., Wagner could see a lot of time as a stretch-5. Playing the pick-and-roll with Lonzo Ball also seems like a winning proposition.
Several current Lakers players and former players were thrilled with their team’s pick.
Moooooooooooooo
— kuz (@kylekuzma) June 22, 2018
WELCOME TO THE SHOW @moritz_weasley !! #RocFam
— Josh Hart (@joshhart) June 22, 2018
From Showtime to Mo Time
— Mychal Thompson (@champagnennuts) June 22, 2018
With the selection of Wagner, the Los Angeles Lakers filled a much-needed void, as their frontcourt is shrouded in mystery. Wagner could play heavy minutes during his rookie campaign and might even get the starting nod.
Grade: B