With less than two weeks to go before the 2015 NBA Draft, most folks assume the Los Angeles Lakers will take either Jahlil Okafor or DeAngelo Russell with the No. 2 overall pick (assuming the Minnesota Timberwolves make Karl-Anthony Towns the top pick). However, there are whispers that the Lakers could consider international star Kristaps Porzingis at No. 2 instead.
According to ESPN’s Marc Stein, Porzingis has garnered some serious attention from the Lakers.
Draft scuttle: Hearing Porzingis not only in play for Philly at No. 3 but now giving Lakers something to ponder at No. 2. Stock rising fast
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) June 13, 2015
Some have referred to Porzingis as the top overall talent in the 2015 draft class — even better than assumed top pick Towns. The Latvian big man offers an excellent mix of athleticism and size (7’1”), while also possessing good range and the ability to stretch the floor on offense. The potential is certainly there for Porzingis to develop into a star, but there are obviously some varying opinions on the international prospect.
The Lakers are coming off the worst season in franchise history, so making the most of the No. 2 overall pick will certainly play a huge role in the team returning to relevance. Will they make the safe pick and go with someone like Okafor, or will they roll the dice and hope the intriguing Porzingis pans out?
We’ll see what happens on June 25, but chances are we’ll hear plenty more rumors between now and then.