The Los Angeles Lakers surprised a few people when they took D’Angelo Russell with the second pick in the NBA Draft. The surprises didn’t stop there as they selected Larry Nance Jr. with their 27th pick. Many mock drafts didn’t even have Nance Jr. getting drafted.

With the 34th pick in the draft, the Lakers took Stanford wing Anthony Brown. Brown is 6-foot-8 and he can play both wing spots. Brown’s strength is certainly shooting the ball. The 22-year-old connected on at least 44 percent of his three-pointers in his last two collegiate seasons. He averaged 14.8 points and 6.9 rebounds this season for the National Invitational Champs.

Not only is Brown a terrific shooter, he led the Cardinals in rebounds despite not being a big man. He is also a solid passer, as he averaged 2.5 assists, good for second on the team. Brown will help the Lakers with his versatility as he will be able to play small forward and shooting guard. That is, if he makes the team.

Brown has the potential to be a Trevor Ariza-like player — a player that can shoot the three and defend both wing spots. The two also have similar body types. The only difference is that Ariza is a terrific defender, while Brown is inconsistent on that end. Brown has the tools to be a good defender, he is long (6-foot-11 wingspan) and is a solid athlete.

It’s hard to believe Brown will have a major role right away. The Lakers have too many young players (Russell, Julius Randle & Jordan Clarkson) that will be relied on, so it’s unlikely Brown will be added to that mix. The Lakers will likely add a wing player, such as DeMarre Carroll, Jimmy Butler, or Khris Middleton. Brown will likely battle it out with players like Jabari Brown and Nick Young (if he returns) for backup minutes.

In a few years, Brown may have a significant role with the Lakers and could be one of the steals in this year’s draft.

George Middleton is a Los Angeles Lakers beat writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @george51391, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google