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

3. Ky Bowman, PG — Boston College

Right now, no one seems to know where Ky Bowman’s stock will be come June. Some folks have him in the mid- to late-second round, while Sports Illustrated’s Jeremy Woo has him at No. 23 of a very early Top 60 big board.

No matter where his stock is when the 2019 NBA Draft rolls around, the Lakers need to have him on their radar. The second round would be ideal, but it wouldn’t be at all surprising if Bowman worked his way into the first round conversation by season’s end.

What makes him so special? Well, just about everything. By that, I mean that he’s extremely well-rounded for a point guard, especially one that’s only 6’1″. He’s an impressive ball-handler (see below video), facilitator, defender and rebounder. Bowman does everything well, and now figures to get an opportunity to prove his value as a go-to scoring threat with Jerome Robinson gone.

https://twitter.com/theACCDN/status/1001885276745023488

As Woo confirms, Bowman also “plays with energy and rarely tires,” which should help him shine in the “Lakers Mentality” drill if he gets a pre-draft invite. That is, assuming his shooting improves after taking a step backwards a season ago. My guess is he’ll step up now that he’s slated for a starring role with the Eagles.

On top of that, Bowman’s experience (he’s a junior) should appeal to the Lakers. In recent years, they’ve focused on older prospects with more polish. Bowman has had two seasons at Boston College to simmer, and will now get his shot at cementing his status as a do-it-all point guard.

With Rajon Rondo unlikely to return in 2019-20 and Isaac Bongo being a complete shot in the dark, point guard depth will be a need next offseason. Bowman fits the bill as a versatile backup who can step in and play a significant role from the get-go.