Lakers News: Insider Predicts LA Will Draft SEC Star For Scoring Help

The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor has the Lakers drafting an intriguing SEC product with their 2023 first rounder.

The question of whether the Lakers should use the 17th overall pick on draft night or whether they should move it as part of a trade package has been one ripe for debate.

If the Lakers opt to keep their first round selection, there would likely be plenty of interesting prospects for Los Angeles to have their choice of, leaving plenty of room for discussion as the June 22nd draft night approaches.

It may be wise for the Lakers to look at drafting a guard, especially with Austin Reaves, D'Angelo Russell, and Dennis Schroder all set to hit the free agent market shortly after the NBA's annual selection extravaganza.

One expert has them leaning that way, as Kevin O'Connor of The Ringer predicted that the Lakers would pick Arkansas guard Nick Smith Jr. with the 17th pick, and this is some of what he said about the freshman in his scouting report.

"Effortless shooter, but his results from behind the arc have been inconsistent. Still, it’s hard not to be optimistic considering his soft touch from the line and on layups, floaters, and pull-ups." (via Kevin O'Connor of The Ringer)

Though he’s primarily an on-ball scorer, he thrives off-ball as a cutter, much like Jamal Murray or Tyler Herro. It’s easy to imagine him plugging into a team that uses a big to run dribble handoffs, or on a team that allows him to spot up and look for cuts or relocations. (via Kevin O'Connor of The Ringer)

Smith has a number of positives in his game, although he does need to add on more muscle to his lanky 6'5," 185 pound frame.

In addition to that, he would need to improve his shooting from deep as he only shot 34 percent from deep.

That said, he would have time to develop especially if Reaves or Russell returns -- and it's becoming more clear by the day that the Lakers will do much of anything to bring back the former.

If Smith can improve his strength and perimeter game, the Lakers could have another draft day coup if they decide to select him.