The Los Angeles Lakers were part of one of the biggest trades in NBA history, landing Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic. He and LeBron James led the franchise to a 50-win season before losing to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs.
It’s an important offseason for the team, as they look to maximize one of the few seasons left in James’ career. The Lakers will have some free agency news to make, but they also have a pick as well in this week’s NBA Draft. While they don’t have a first, LA does have a pick towards the end at No. 55.
As we’ve seen with someone like Austin Reeves, there can be hidden gems outside the first round that can be impactful. Based on the latest mocks and big boards, here are a trio of realistic options for the Lakers at 55 that they should consider.
Ryan Nembhard - Gonzaga Bulldogs
Ryan’s brother, Andrew, was a former Gonzaga star who has carved out a role as a starter for the Indiana Pacers. He’s 6’5, so Ryan Nembhard being barely 6’0 will be an issue for him at the next level. Still, the senior led all of CBB with just under 10 apg last season, and the Lakers could use a ball-handler to take some of the pressure off of James and Doncic in running the offense.
Amari Williams - Kentucky Wildcats
The 6’10 big man was a former 2-time Defensive Player of the Year at Drexel in the CAA. He moved up to the SEC at Kentucky, producing 10.9 ppg and 8.5 rpg this past season, along with over three assists a game. Williams is a good athlete who held his own against the best bigs in the nation and has the all-around game to be an interesting option late in the draft.
Dylan Cardwell - Auburn Tigers
Cardwell is a 6’11 center who flew under the spotlight next to All-American big man, Johni Broome. The senior only averaged 5.0 ppg and 5.1 rpg this past season at Auburn, but Cardwell is a physical body and an elite individual defender who can play in the NBA. The Lakers, who won’t need much scoring production inside, could use an impact player like Cardwell to provide interior muscle.