Complete grades for all 30 teams in the 2019 NBA Draft
Los Angeles Lakers
Talen Horton-Tucker (No. 46)
After swinging a mega-deal for Anthony Davis, the Los Angeles Lakers sacrificed the precious No. 4 pick they happened to luck into. In an attempt to acquire low-cost assets, they made a deal with the Orlando Magic to acquire the 46th overall pick.
With the selection, L.A. brought in Iowa State freshman Talen Horton-Tucker, an athletic point guard with incredible creativity. He averaged just 11.8 points per game, but possesses the raw talent that leads to a high upside.
Talen Horton-Tucker is a first round talent. Unique player at 6-4, 240, 7-1 wingspan with ball skills. Really needs to continue improving his body and decision making but the ability is there. Interested to see how he develops in LA.
— Mike Schmitz (@Mike_Schmitz) June 21, 2019
Despite standing just 6’4”, Horton-Tucker has a wingspan stretching 7’1”, making him an ideal defender on the perimeter who can switch between the opposition. Set to turn 19 in November, there’s still plenty of room to grow for a player in need of some improved decision-making skills with the ball in his hands.
Acquiring AD was a no-brainer for the Lakers, but doing so required the stripping of a number of talented role players. The Lakers still have more cap space to bring in a supporting cast, but should Horton-Tucker pan out, it will provide L.A. with a cheap option that can help them back into the playoffs.
Grade: B-