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

1. Bol Bol, C – Oregon

Honestly, this might be a bit of a pipe dream. Although plenty of folks are still skeptical about Bol Bol’s ability to shine at the next level, he’s still being ranked in the 15-22 range. With that being said, I love the idea of the Lakers landing the 7’2″ center with NBA bloodlines (he’s the son of the late Manute Bol, who twice led the league in blocks).

Seriously, let this kid stay underrated all year if it means the Lakers get a shot at him.

Bol’s physical tools and raw potential are through the roof, between his stretched-out frame, impressive athleticism and extended range. He’s still trying to figure out how to use his size and length most effectively, and his drive has come into question. Although tall, he lacks strength, which could also be a problem against the NBA’s more powerful bigs. And yet, it’s hard to ignore the fact that he’s got “unicorn” written all over him.

You’re just not going to find this package of skills very often. His height and long arms make him a natural defensive headache, although his rim protector instincts could use some polishing. The shooting is there, but questions have arisen about his relatively low release. Still, when you stay focused on Bol’s ceiling, it’s hard not to be mesmerized.

Sure, there are reasons for concern. If he can put together a solid season at Oregon, though, I don’t see any reason why scouts won’t be drooling over his potential. If the Lakers fail to meet expectations in 2018-19, they could watch a talent like Bol fall into their laps.

Even if they do land somewhere in the 23-26 range, Bol may still be on the board. It’s extremely unlikely, but anything is possible in today’s NBA. He’d give the Lakers a big, rim-protecting center who can catch and shoot on the LeBron James kickouts. Sounds like a win to me.