Los Angeles Lakers: Early look at realistic NBA Draft options at No. 10
Bol Bol, C, Oregon
It’s very easy to get excited when imagining what Bol Bol could bring to the party for the Lakers. A 7-2 center with a massive wingspan, impressive handles and a silky-smooth outside stroke, it seems ridiculous to imagine him even being available at No. 10, right?
Well let’s take a step back for a second.
As enticing of a talent as Bol is, there are some serious concerns as well. First and foremost, health is always going to be a major red flag for players of his stature. It doesn’t help that a foot injury took most of his 2018-19 campaign and flushed it down the toilet.
The fact that Bol sports a lean, lanky frame with limited strength doesn’t help his case.
And yet, the abilities he possesses for such a tall prospect are too hard to ignore.
The kid can consistently sink it from just about anywhere, offers good rim protecting and glass cleaning skills considering his wingspan and length and he’s capable of putting the ball on the floor surprisingly well for a center.
There’s a reason he was seen as a possible top-five prospect prior to the injury.
The bloodlines help too.
Considering the warning signs, there’s a good chance Bol slides on draft day. While he’d be a risky pickup for the Lakers, it’s a risk worth taking when it could potentially net them their starting center (and potential All-Star) for the next decade.
That is, assuming his body holds up under the rigors of playing in the NBA.