Lakers 2023 Draft Preview: 9 Players to Watch

Here is a breakdown of seven players who could make an impact on the team next season:

1. Dereck Lively ll

• 6’10” center from Duke
• Athletic rim protector with a good shooting touch
• Needs to improve his positioning and footwork, but his upside is undeniable
• Projected to be drafted in the top 5

Dereck Lively II: Dereck Lively II, a Duke player, brings an impressive skill set to the court. His athleticism and massive wingspan make him a constant lob threat and a mobile rim protector. While he needs work on his shooting and positioning, his potential as a versatile big man is undeniable. Pairing him with Anthony Davis could create a formidable frontcourt for the Lakers.

2. James Nnaji

• 6’9″ power forward from  FC Barcelona
• Strong, physical forward who is a force on the defensive end
• Good rebounder and finisher around the basket
• Needs to improve his shooting range, but he has the potential to be a solid starter in the NBA
• Projected to be drafted in the late lottery

James Nnaji is a game-changer on the defensive end. His presence around the basket alters shots and disrupts opponents. He showcases great footwork, sets strong screens, and battles relentlessly for rebounds. Nnaji is an excellent interior finisher, utilizing his soft touch and ambidextrous ability. However, he still needs to improve his shooting outside the paint.

3. Bilal Coulibaly

• 6’11” power forward from Metropolitans 92 (France)
• Long, athletic defender who is a shot blocking machine
• Good rebounder and has the potential to be a solid defender in the NBA
• Projected to be drafted in the second round

Bilal Coulibaly, who is Victor Wembanyama’s teammate, brings an incredible defensive presence to the court. With elite measurements in height and wingspan, he excels as a shot-blocking machine. Coulibaly’s grit and consistent effort on both ends of the court make him a valuable asset for any team, including the Lakers.

4. Jett Howard

• 6’8″ shooting guard from Michigan
• Knockdown shooter with a high basketball IQ
• Good defender and has the potential to be a solid role player in the NBA
• Projected to be drafted in the second round

Jett Howard, the son of former NBA all-star Juwan Howard, has caught the attention of Lakers’ General Manager Rob Pelinka. Howard is a knockdown three-point shooter but offers more than just scoring. With a high basketball IQ, he thrives in NBA-style actions, making smart plays and shooting around screens. His defensive effort and hustle resemble players like Desmond Bane, making him an intriguing prospect for the Lakers.

5. Maxwell Louis

• 6’7″ shooting guard from Pepperdine University
• Smooth-shooting guard with a knack for finding open spaces
• Good passer and has the potential to be a solid role player in the NBA
• Projected to be drafted in the second round

Maxwell Louis possesses a silky smooth shooting stroke and flawless mechanics, making him a deadly threat from beyond the arc. His crafty finishing ability and knack for finding open spaces as a cutter are valuable assets when playing alongside LeBron James. While not a lead guard, Louis’ playmaking skills and basketball IQ can consistently impact games.

6. Jordan Hawkins

• 6’5″ shooting guard from UConn
• Elite shooter with a quick release
• Good passer and defender and has the potential to be a solid starter in the NBA
• Projected to be drafted in the late first round

Jordan Hawkins is an elite shooter with a lightning-quick release, making him a valuable asset in off-ball screening actions tailor-made for the NBA. He excels in transition, displaying great court vision and unselfishness. Although he needs to improve his finishing at the rim and primary ball handling, his shooting ability has remained consistent. Lakers fans should keep an eye on Hawkins as his shooting skills and basketball IQ make him an exciting prospect for the upcoming season.

7. Nick Smith Jr.

• 6’5″ shooting guard from Arkansas
• Dynamic scorer with a lot of potential
• Good ball handler and finisher and has the potential to be a star in the NBA
• Projected to be drafted in the lottery

Nick Smith Jr. is an absolute scoring machine, combining athleticism with a tight handle. His ability to create shots from anywhere on the court is impressive, although his three-point shooting can be inconsistent. Smith’s soft touch and finishing ability at the rim make him an exciting prospect. Furthermore, his playmaking skills add another dimension to his game.

8. Kobe Bufkin

• 6’5″ guard from Michigan
• Versatile guard who can score and distribute
• Good defender and has the potential to be a solid starter in the NBA
• Projected to be drafted in the late first round

Kobe Bufkin is a versatile half-court talent who thrives with or without the ball. His ambidextrous finishing at the rim is a sight to behold, and he has dramatically improved his shooting, making him a threat from deep. Bufkin combines excellent fundamentals with playmaking skills, always looking to make a positive impact on the game.

9. Keyonte George

• 6’4″ point guard from Baylor 
• Scoring guard with a lot of potential
• Good ball handler and shooter and has the potential to be a star in the NBA
• Projected to be drafted in the lottery

Keyonte George is a player who stands out with his impressive scoring ability. He excels at creating space and poses a tough challenge for defenders. With his shooting range and inability to be contained near the paint, George showcases his offensive arsenal. On the defensive end, his sturdy frame and quick hands allow him to hold his ground and bother opponents. However, to truly establish himself in the NBA, George will need to prove himself against elite defenders who possess length and speed.

In conclusion, we have provided a breakdown of these promising young talents that have caught the attention of the Lakers front office. Thank you for tuning in to the Late Night Late Show podcast, your go-to source for Lakers basketball analysis and discussion.

Don’t forget to subscribe to our channel and podcast for authentic and hashtag good content. Until next time, stay true to the purple and gold. Peace.

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