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

2. Sagaba Konate, PF/C — West Virginia

Moving forward, the Lakers are going to need more big men. I know they just drafted Moritz Wagner, but he’s more of a stretch-4. I don’t think Ivica Zubac is ever going to develop into a starter, and JaVale McGee may not last more than a year.

That’s why I’m expecting the Lakers to look long and hard for a center during the 2019 offseason. Free agency is obviously an option, but the draft could also be the avenue they take to address one of their roster’s biggest weaknesses.

Now, admittedly, drafting Sagaba Konate may not be the quick fix the Lakers want. While he’s spent time at both the 4 and 5 spots at West Virginia, his 6’7″ frame may limit his effectiveness at center in the NBA. With that being said, he’s got the potential to serve as a small-ball 5 who can bring the elite rim protection we rarely see from those types of lineups.

So here’s the thing with Konate: his shot-blocking is out of this world. Last season, he had a block rate of 15.6 percent, second-best in the nation. His ability to send shots back verges on mind-boggling, as he uses terrific timing, instincts and athleticism to consistently deny ball-handlers brave enough to venture into the paint.

It’s not just the shot-blocking, though. Konate is a high-energy, passionate big who simply outplays his opponents. He’s a smart, aware defender who needs to develop a more efficient offensive game, but figures to undergo more growth during his junior season.

Will Konate find a shooting stroke this year? Maybe. Even if he doesn’t, he still offers enough defensive prowess to make him worth watching for the Lakers.