Lakers draft target: Jordan Hawkins
The Lakers hold the 17th overall pick in the NBA Draft. If they keep the pick, Jordan Hawkins should be one of the options on their draft board.
Hawkins had a great sophomore season earning All-Big East honors and helping UConn win the national championship.
The 21-year-old guard averaged 16/4/1, shooting 40.9% from the field and 38.8% from three. He is one of the best three-point shooters in the class, and shooting is a big need for LA.
Jordan Hawkins out of UConn provides high level movement shooting
— 🏆LakersGuru🏆 (@GuruLakers) June 21, 2023
Defense MUST react to him off pin downs
At Malik Beasley ‘s best the Lakers were unbeatable and unguardable with the way this type of threat opens up the floor pic.twitter.com/U1wDG3DG75
He’s a great movement shooter and shoots extremely well coming off of screens. Hawkins improved his ability to create his own shot and attack the rim throughout his time at UConn.
He is a solid defensive player but isn’t a lockdown defender. Hawkins is a 6-foot-5 guard and should be an instant impact player with his shooting ability.
LeBron James and Anthony Davis are both dominant forces that excel at finishing in the paint. Their constant attack on the rim opens up three-point shots for teammates. Hawkins would be able to get plenty of catch-and-shoot looks in the offense.
Jordan Hawkins met with the Lakers as well in Los Angeles, some quick on-court work but primarily met with front office.
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) June 21, 2023
James gifted passing ability would also help Hawkins get quality three-point shots.
Darvin Ham also runs off-ball action for shooters to come off a screen for open looks. He also ran dribble-hand-offs for his shooters this season. Malik Beasley saw many of these actions run for him after the Lakers acquired him at the deadline.
Hawkins’ three-point shooting ability would fill a need for the Lakers. If Hawkins is available at 17 and LA keeps the pick, they should consider drafting him.