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The Lakers should be eyeing these forwards with the 17th pick

By Ca'ren Franklinon

The Los Angeles Lakers have recently appointed their new head coach just days before the NBA Draft, prompting JJ Redick to swiftly assemble his coaching staff and finalize draft day plans. As teams explore trade opportunities to reshape their rosters, the Lakers carefully evaluate their options, particularly at the wing and center positions.

— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) June 20, 202

This draft class has faced criticism for lacking a clear-cut superstar like Victor Wembanyama. While the Atlanta Hawks might favor Zaccharie Risacher, the class harbors considerable talent that often goes unnoticed. Despite the absence of a standout name, there are gems to be found deeper in the draft.

Transition defense emerged as a critical issue for the Lakers during the past season, plagued by turnovers and lackluster defensive efforts. Observers noted players often caught out of position, leading to easy opponent baskets.

The Lakers allowed an average of 16.3 points in transition, ranking among the league’s worst, underscoring the need for defensive improvement to contend for a championship.

Jarred Vanderbilt was brought in to bolster defense, but injuries hindered his impact. Even when he returned, his offensive consistency fell short, shooting 6% below the league average from three and struggling at the free-throw line.

With an offseason to heal and refine his game, the 6-foot-9 defensive specialist is expected to return to form.

The Lakers seek more than just defenders; they need versatile wings who excel defensively. Let’s explore potential prospects they could target with the 17th pick in the NBA Draft:

Ron Holland

Ron Holland from the G League Ignite has the potential to be a superstar in this league. Initially projected as a top-10 pick, Holland’s offensive inconsistencies might cause him to fall despite his 20.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 2.0 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game this past season.

Holland, a 6-foot-8, 200-pound wing, can switch between all five positions and score in transition, attributes crucial for modern NBA wings. His athleticism and defensive playmaking could make him a game-changer for the Lakers, especially with his ability to hound players on the point of attack and cause turnovers.

While Holland’s offensive game showed flashes, he struggled with turnovers and shooting inconsistency, partly due to his heavy offensive load in college. With development, particularly in shooting and decision-making, Holland has the potential to evolve into a top offensive option.

NBA Comparisons:

Ceiling: Jaylen Brown  

Floor: Tari Eason

Tristan Da Silva

Tristan Da Silva is a proficient floor spacer, shooting about 40% from three-point range on 299 attempts, a high volume for the forward position. A versatile power forward, Da Silva averaged 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists while shooting 49.3% from the field. He earned first-team All-Pac-12 honors during his junior year in 2023.

Da Silva showcased mobility at the combine, ranking 3rd in shuttle run and 10th in pro lane drills. He excels as a traditional power forward, creating mismatches and demonstrating defensive IQ. However, his rebounding and athleticism raise concerns among scouts.

Da Silva struggles with recovery against quicker opponents, particularly after pump fakes, which exposes his defensive vulnerabilities. Nevertheless, with help side defenders like Anthony Davis, Da Silva can capitalize on physicality and perimeter defense that leads the opponent to Davis 

for the block and his shooting capabilities.

NBA Comparisons:

Ceiling: Tobias Harris  

Floor: Jake LaRavia

Cody Williams

Oklahoma City Thunder player Jalen Williams has a younger brother, Cody, who is being showcased in this year’s draft. Like his brother, Cody excels in the slashing game. He displays a soft touch at the rim, moves effectively off dribble handoffs, and handles the ball well.

Statistics aren’t the defining factor for this prospect. Last season, Williams averaged 11.9 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.6 assists and shot 55% from the field.

At times, watching the 6-foot-7 wing, you see a 3&D player with sky-high potential. If he develops an above-average handle with counter moves, he could surpass his ceiling to become a Paul George prototype.

The Lakers have been searching for wings who embrace defense and intercept passing lanes. Williams excels in these areas, and with proper guidance, he can become an excellent point-of-attack defender, especially given his 7-foot-1 wingspan.

He will most likely play off the ball, cutting to the basket and pushing the pace in transition, where he is proficient. While he may not be a human highlight reel, Williams possesses a sneaky vertical leap off two feet that can catch defenders off guard.

There is potential for defensive prowess with his 7-foot-1 wingspan and 6-foot-7 frame. Although lateral movement can be a weak spot for the former Boulder star, his recovery presence is notable.

In addition to improving his lateral movement, Williams needs to gain muscle. Due to his current stature, his ball security and ability to box out will be challenged in the NBA. Physical guards can easily lower their shoulders, absorb contact, and create space against him.

Catch-and-shoot opportunities will be where Williams begins his offensive production in the league. He is not yet an efficient catch-and-shoot player, having attempted a low volume of threes and making only 20% of his catch-and-shoot attempts last season.

As his career progresses, Williams will need to strengthen his footwork. Currently, he lacks many counter moves, which can limit his scoring ability. Slashing without proper footwork can make his moves predictable and burn out the shot clock.

NBA Comparisons:

Ceiling: Jaden McDaniels

Floor: Dalano Banton

In summary, the Los Angeles Lakers face a crucial decision with the 17th pick in the NBA Draft. Under JJ Redick’s new leadership, they aim to address their transition defense and add versatile wings. Despite criticisms of this draft class, prospects like Ron Holland, Tristan Da Silva, and Cody Williams offer significant potential to enhance the Lakers’ roster.

Holland’s defensive tenacity and offensive potential, Da Silva’s sharpshooting and mobility, and Williams’s length, transition scoring ability, and defensive potential each present unique strengths that can help the Lakers improve their overall performance. By making a strategic choice, the Lakers can fortify their lineup and take a significant step toward returning to title contention.

Ca'ren Franklin's passion for the NBA, especially the Lakers, runs deep, and he channels that love into his writing for LADE. Currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Communications with a Sports Emphasis at California Lutheran University, Ca'ren is committed to carving out a career in sports journalism and broadcasting. With a keen interest in the ever-evolving world of sports media, he’s focused on reaching a broader audience and advancing his career in the field. When he’s not analyzing the latest game or trade, you can often find him on the move, exploring new places and embracing the adventures that come with his love for travel.
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