Lakers Draft: Two Picks Following Hood-Schifino
The Los Angeles Lakers made a splash in the 2023 NBA Draft, selecting Maximo "Max" Hood-Schifino with the 17th overall pick. But their work wasn't done. With two more selections in the second round, the Lakers added more young talent to their roster. Let's dive into their picks and what they bring to the team.
Round 2, Pick 40: Colby Jones, Guard, University of Dayton
The Lakers addressed their backcourt depth by selecting Colby Jones with the 40th pick. A 6'5" combo guard from Dayton, Jones is known for his versatility and defensive prowess. He brings a high basketball IQ and a knack for creating offense for both himself and his teammates.
What Jones Brings:
- Defense: Jones is a standout defender with a strong understanding of positioning and rotations. He's a disruptive presence who can guard multiple positions.
- Versatility: He's comfortable playing on and off the ball, making him a valuable asset in different lineups.
- High IQ: Jones excels at reading the game and making smart decisions, both offensively and defensively.
Impact on the Lakers:
Jones might need some time to adjust to the NBA, but he has the potential to be a valuable role player. His defense and versatility could earn him minutes early on.
Round 2, Pick 46: Jalen Hood-Schifino (Brother of Maximo Hood-Schifino), Guard, University of Indiana
The Lakers made it a family affair, selecting Jalen Hood-Schifino, Maximo's brother, with the 46th pick. While Jalen might not have the same level of hype as his brother, he's a skilled guard who can contribute offensively and defensively.
What Jalen Brings:
- Scoring Ability: Jalen is a strong scorer, capable of creating his own shot and knocking down jumpers. He also has good court vision and can set up teammates.
- Defense: Like his brother, Jalen is a capable defender with good size and athleticism.
- Leadership: Jalen played a key role in leading Indiana's offense and showed a lot of maturity on the court.
Impact on the Lakers:
Jalen might have a steeper path to making the Lakers' roster, but his potential and family connection make him an intriguing prospect. He could become a valuable asset in the G-League, developing his game and competing for a future spot.
The Future for the Lakers' New Draft Picks
With the addition of Hood-Schifino, Jones, and Jalen, the Lakers have added three promising young players to their roster. While they may not have the immediate impact of a first-round pick, these players have the potential to grow into key contributors for the franchise.
The Lakers are in a rebuilding phase, and these picks demonstrate their commitment to developing young talent for the future. With some time and development, these players could be a key part of the Lakers' return to championship contention.