Lakers Draft Hood-Schifino: Who Were the Next Picks?
The Los Angeles Lakers made waves during the 2023 NBA Draft, selecting Maximus "Max" Hood-Schifino with the 17th overall pick. This move, aimed at bolstering their backcourt, sent ripples throughout the draft, leaving fans curious about who the Lakers passed on and what talent was still available.
Let's delve into the picks immediately following Hood-Schifino, exploring the players who could have donned the purple and gold instead.
The Immediate Aftermath: Key Players Selected After Hood-Schifino
Pick 18: Keyonte George (Sacramento Kings): This dynamic guard, known for his explosive scoring ability, was a hot commodity in the draft. George's offensive prowess, combined with his confident playmaking, could have been a valuable asset for the Lakers.
Pick 19: Jordan Hawkins (Charlotte Hornets): Another high-scoring guard, Hawkins impressed with his shooting range and ability to create shots. The Hornets added a potential future star in Hawkins, a player who could have contributed to the Lakers' offensive strategy.
Pick 20: Cason Wallace (Oklahoma City Thunder): Wallace, a versatile guard with impressive defensive skills, was projected by many to go higher. His ability to guard multiple positions and impact the game at both ends of the court would have been a welcome addition to the Lakers' lineup.
Pick 21: Gregory Jackson (New Orleans Pelicans): Jackson, a talented forward, showed flashes of brilliance with his athleticism and ability to score inside and out. While his development is still ongoing, his raw potential made him an intriguing prospect for the Lakers.
Pick 22: Rayan Rupert (Indiana Pacers): This international prospect, known for his defensive tenacity and athleticism, was a bit of a wildcard. Rupert, with his high upside and raw talent, could have been a long-term project for the Lakers.
What Could Have Been?
The Lakers' decision to draft Hood-Schifino was based on their specific needs and evaluation of his potential. While the players selected after him offer intriguing skillsets and upside, it's impossible to say definitively who would have been a better fit for the Lakers' long-term goals.
It's important to remember that the draft is filled with uncertainty. The players selected after Hood-Schifino, like him, still have a lot to prove at the NBA level. Time will tell if the Lakers made the right choice, but the talent pool immediately following Hood-Schifino's selection certainly provided them with a plethora of options.
Only time will tell if the Lakers' gamble on Hood-Schifino will pay off. But, for now, the debate over who the Lakers could have selected remains a fascinating topic for fans and analysts alike.