Lakers News: Why Draft Expert Loves LA Fit Of Jalen Hood-Schifino

Lakers keep the pick!

The Lakers made their selection at number 17, taking Jalen Hood-Schifino from Indiana University. The team had chances to trade the pick either for more draft capital or possibly a role player but they decided to take the route of actually using the pick. Now, fans may be a little mad about that but this is a good thing. 

Hood-Schifino may have not been the name that many LA fans were hoping for but this is a solid pick. So much so that NBA Draft expert Kevin O'Connor raved about it on his Twitter.

Jalen Hood-Schifino is a nice add for the Lakers.

Gives LA another ball handler while retaining size on defense. It's important he improve as shooter (30.4% on spot-up 3s in college) but he has good touch from midrange and the line so it's a strong bet that he figures it out. pic.twitter.com/KoFeYPckaf

— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) June 23, 2023

This was the kind of pick that may get questioned at first but after you see what this kid can do, you are reminded of why the Lakers selected him. Hood-Schifino is a big, versitile point guard who thrives in the midrange. His ability to get space from defenders allowed him to find success in college.

He won the Big 10 Freshman of the Year award during his one season with the Hoosiers and averaged 13.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. But what helps separate him from other guards is his 6'6 height. It allows him to use his length on defense, making it tough on the opposing teams. 

His defense likely was one of the main reasons as to why the Lakers ultimately selected him as he should help them on that end of the floor. Hood-Schifino works very well in ball-screen actions and his ability to score the ball at a high rate works great for him. 

He does need to work on his shooting a little as he shot just 33.3 percent from deep but he has the touch to make it work for him in the NBA. The Lakers probably believe that he can be a nice two-way style of player in the league and for that his upside is high. 

We have no reason but to trust the Lakers when it comes to drafting talent as they have shown us time and time again, they find solid players. Hood-Schifino is a great selection for the Lakers as they go for banner number 18 next season.

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