Lakers Draft Hood-Schifino: Who Followed?

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Post on Nov 01, 2024

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Lakers Draft Hood-Schifino: Who Followed?

The Los Angeles Lakers made waves during the 2023 NBA Draft, selecting Maximo "Max" Hood-Schifino with the 17th overall pick. This move sparked excitement among Lakers fans, who were eager to see what the young guard could bring to the team. But who else did the Lakers target in the draft?

While the team ultimately went with Hood-Schifino, several other players were reportedly on their radar. Let's delve into the names that were rumored to be on the Lakers' draft board, and analyze their potential fit with the team.

The Contenders for the Lakers' Pick

1. Jordan Hawkins: The sharpshooting guard from UConn was a hot commodity leading up to the draft. Hawkins' ability to knock down shots from range and his athleticism made him an intriguing option for the Lakers. However, some scouts questioned his ability to create his own shot, a concern that likely factored into the Lakers' decision to pass on him.

2. Keyonte George: Another guard with a knack for scoring, George played for Baylor and was known for his explosive scoring ability. With the Lakers needing scoring punch, George's skillset made him a logical target. However, his lack of playmaking and defensive prowess might have made the Lakers hesitant.

3. Cason Wallace: The Kentucky guard was a standout defender and had potential as a playmaker. While Wallace's scoring ability was still developing, his defensive intensity and potential as a facilitator were appealing for a team looking to improve its overall defense.

4. Dereck Lively II: The 7-foot-1 center from Duke was a dominant shot-blocker and could have provided rim protection for the Lakers. However, questions about his offensive development and ability to contribute on the offensive end likely pushed him down the Lakers' list.

The Lakers' Decision: A Focus on Potential

Ultimately, the Lakers decided to draft Max Hood-Schifino, a player with a high ceiling but still raw talent. While the team was likely interested in some of the other players listed above, they clearly saw something special in Hood-Schifino. His ability to play both guard positions, his playmaking skills, and his potential for growth made him an attractive prospect.

It's important to remember that the Lakers are still in a rebuilding phase. Their focus is on developing young talent and creating a foundation for future success. Hood-Schifino fits that vision perfectly. He represents a gamble on a player with immense potential, but one who needs time to develop and refine his game.

Conclusion:

While the Lakers' decision to draft Hood-Schifino might not have been the most conventional move, it's a testament to their commitment to building for the future. The players they considered, including Hawkins, George, Wallace, and Lively, all had their own strengths and weaknesses. However, the Lakers clearly saw something in Hood-Schifino that convinced them to make him their pick. It's a bold move that could pay dividends in the long run.