Richard Mackson – USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Lakers have plenty of options with the second pick, and it is extremely important for their future that they get it right.
Kristaps Porzingis is a popular name being thrown around, a skilled big man from Europe who could be the next star in the league. He has plenty of potential, but would be a huge gamble compared to taking other names at the top of the draft board. The Lakers should not risk taking Porzingis, and should instead focus on other prospects or possibly even trading the pick.
There is no doubt that Porzingis is a very good prospect with a unique skill-set. He has the makings of a very good shooter, and his height will make him tough to guard. He is athletic enough to put the ball on the floor and make a play, and seems to be a good fit for the way offenses around the league are changing. Comparisons are being made to Pau Gasol and Dirk Nowitzki, two of the best European players to ever play in the NBA. With his length and fluidity, he could even be a solid defensive prospect as well.
While taking Porzingis is intriguing, there are other players out there who would be more worth the second pick. Karl Anthony-Towns, Jahlil Okafor and D’Angelo Russell are also extremely talented players who organizations have plenty of experience watching. They played against good competition in college, and all have the potential to be stars.
Porzingis may be a very good player one day, but he is just not worth the gamble right now with the second pick. The Lakers have a lot of pressure on them to make the right decision, and the organization needs someone to build around for the future. If they do decide to trade and pick lower in the draft, then he may make more sense. But if the Lakers keep the second overall pick, then they should not pick Porzingis.
