Los Angeles Lakers: Early look at realistic NBA Draft options at No. 10

Jaxson Hayes, C, Texas

The center position is easily one of the Lakers’ biggest needs this offseason. Rolling with a combination of JaVale McGee, Tyson Chandler and a couple of youngsters simply didn’t get the job done, regardless of how much Los Angeles fans will try to convince you otherwise.

That’s why I’m expecting the Lakers to look long and hard at a center with the No. 10 overall pick.

The first realistic option to fill the void with that selection is Texas’ Jaxson Hayes. Although his draft stock could soar or plummet in the coming months, it’s safe to say the Longhorns big man brings plenty of intrigue and upside to the table.

Plus, he’s an underrated defender with terrific instincts when it comes to protecting the rim.

Whether or not the Lakers truly consider Hayes (assuming he’s available) will likely depend on where they see the 2019-20 campaign going.

If it’s looking like another middle-of-the-road effort for James and Co., Hayes makes plenty of sense as a project with All-Star potential. If they’re in win-now mode (unlikely), they may go for a more polished option.

Either way, Hayes is one worth watching at No. 10. The pre-draft process could launch him too high for Los Angeles to touch, or we could see him slide past the lottery.

No matter what happens, don’t be surprised if the raw, athletic center is sitting near the top of the Lakers’ draft board come June 20.