Los Angeles Lakers: Early look at potential 2019 NBA Draft targets

It may seem early for 2019 NBA Draft prep, but you better believe the Los Angeles Lakers scouting department is already trying to figure out which players to target next June.

I know. It’s August. The 2018-19 NBA season hasn’t even started, so why am I worrying about what the Los Angeles Lakers will do during the 2019 NBA Draft? Well, as it so happens, the Lakers are worrying, so why shouldn’t we be too?

Pretty much as soon as the 2018 NBA Draft was over, the Lakers’ scouting department shifted its focus to the 2019 draft class. Although there are still about 10 months to go before next year’s annual graduation ceremony, it’s never too early for them to begin building a big board with potential prospects.

So why not join them? Obviously I won’t be building my own big board, but instead simply pointing out a few names worth knowing. Either they fill a need the Lakers could have next year, or seem to fit the mold of the players Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka like to draft. Or both.

Keep one thing in mind when looking at this list — there will be no “elite” prospects. Don’t expect to see R.J. Barrett or Cameron Reddish. Apart from the final guy, I’m doing my best to keep things in the realm of possibility. That means focusing on players who could actually be available for the Lakers, a team that figures to finish with a non-lottery first round pick.

Tempered expectations? We’re on the same page? Great! Then let’s jump right into my early look at 2019 NBA Draft prospects the Lakers need to have on their radar right now. I believe all three of these players could make an impact if drafted by the Purple and Gold next year.