The Lakers should target these prospects with the 55th pick
As the 2024 NBA Draft approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers have the 55th choice in the second round. Although late second-round choices are frequently disregarded, they can occasionally produce hidden gems.
The Lakers have an opportunity to bolster their squad, and several exciting talents may be available. The Lakers may want to think about the following options:
Bronny worked out for the Lakers earlier today 🔥
The Lakers are particularly interested in his athleticism, defensive potential, and shooting.
(via @DanWoikeSports) pic.twitter.com/VG6DN30dIm
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) June 13, 2024
Bronny James
- School: USC
- Position: Guard
- Pro Comparison: Davion Mtichell
Bronny James made an impression with his shooting at the NBA combine, and at USC, James’ defensive agility was impressive. In the long term, his shooting, foot speed, and IQ provide a plausible three-and-D paradigm and the road to NBA success, even if he would probably spend the following year receiving NBA G League reps and the added attention of the South Bay Lakers.
The Lakers are intrigued by James’ athleticism, defensive ability, and shooting at the Chicago draft combine. Should he return to the organization in free agency this summer (if he opts out, as expected), the Lakers might create history by pairing him with his father, LeBron James.
Rich Paul, Bronny’s agent, has clarified that Bronny would not sign a two-way deal and would have a guaranteed contract. Therefore, if the Lakers wish to choose him, they must ensure Bronny has a position on the squad.
Ultimately, his contested talent and draft value have produced some of the most intriguing and complex narratives of the contemporary NBA Draft period.
Lakers have worked out Jalen Bridges out of Baylor.
6’8 Forward w/ a 6’10 wingspan.
He shot 41% from 3 last season and is a solid Defender.
The definition of a Low-Usage, 3&D Connector Piece.
Possible 2nd Rd or UDFA guy for LAL.
pic.twitter.com/sGPaZlvnR0— Lakers Legacy (@LakersLegacyPod) June 21, 2024
Jalen Bridges
- School: Baylor
- Position: Small Forward / Power Forward
- Pro Comparison: Dorian Finney-Smith
Jalen Bridges is an athletic forward with length and versatility who has the potential to develop into a 3-and-D wing at the next level. He has a solid 3-point shot but needs to improve his perimeter skills to play more on the wing.
Bridges is an intelligent player who can impact winning without the ball in his hands and is active on both ends of the floor. His defensive side is intriguing, with great lateral quickness and a good shot blocker for his size.
Bridges could be a screener in the NBA, a secondary rim protector, and a capable shooter off the catch. As a senior, Jalen Bridges shot 73-of-177 (41.2 percent) from 3-point range while showing off his length and athleticism with 57 stocks.
The Lakers could start thinking about an adaptable, three-and-D wing that can guard both forward spots.
If he can maintain his high percentage of shot completion, Bridges, who made a significant improvement as a spot-up threat the previous season, will probably be in the NBA for a long time. Although he may not bring much to the game and still has to improve defensively, he has a role in a position where NBA clubs could be much better.
You can make a case for Adem Bona as the No. 1 player in this class in several categories: explosiveness, ground coverage, intensity and defensive versatility — valuable traits that could help him carve out a role early in his career.
ESPN sleepers: https://t.co/ekEeVU2OdH pic.twitter.com/IR5hvbriwf
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) June 22, 2024
Adem Bona
- School: UCLA
- Position: Center
- Pro comparison: Daniel Gafford
Adem Bona is a quick-twitch athlete with explosive speed and explosive ability in the open court. He can switch ends quickly, has much potential as a transition player and defender, and quickly cuts to the basket.
In addition to his powerful frame, Bona is a very elegant and agile athlete. In transition, when attacking the rim, he has an excellent feel for filling the lane and making cutbacks for back-door lobs.
He scores the majority of his points in the lane, where he excels at seizing the man-of-the-dribble and using his extraordinary speed to outmuscle the opposition.
His adaptable defense will be his primary NBA selling point. He can switch all over the floor and is an excellent player to guard smaller opponents. He is a superb defensive rebounder and rim protector.
Although his lack of an outside shooting game may restrict his NBA potential, he has a clear path to becoming a rotation big who adds value with his agility, effort, and defensive flexibility.
With a 7-foot-4 wingspan, Adem Bona tied for the greatest standing vertical. Bona demonstrated his length and agility during scrimmages with huge finishes and blocks. The additional points he has scored at UCLA this season won’t help his standing. However, he still possesses the skills, motor, feet, and jumping ability to create plays at both ends of the rim.
As the Lakers approach the 2024 NBA Draft with the 55th pick, they can find a hidden gem. Adem Bona contributes quickness and defensive versatility, Jalen Bridges gives 3-and-D potential, and Bronny James delivers shooting and defensive agility.
This selection may result in a vital roster acquisition for the Lakers.
