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via Getty

via Getty

With the NBA draft approaching day by day, most of the Los Angeles Lakers news is full of their number 55 pick. However, it is not just the late pick that Rob Pelinka‘s front office possesses. They also have the No. 17 draft pick in their bag to land a good player who can rotate the game better. Interestingly, observing the Lakers draft for over a decade, Mike Garcia shed light on the possibilities that Rob and Jeanie might go with, considering the players that are available to pick at that level. Moreover, he also revealed what the Lakers from the office expects from a player on that pick.

While appearing on The Athletic reporter Jovan Buha’s podcast on YouTube, Garcia elaborated on Rob Pelinka’s requisites from No. 17 pick as he said, “I think they tend to lean forward to Triple Threat skills. Dribble, pass, and shoot are a priority. Hopefully, the player is a specialist of one of the aspect of that.” Apparently, the advice from the draft expert for the Lakers seems right, as the Lakers need someone to pass the ball on both ends.

Moreover, Garcia also revealed what the Lakers office expects from a player on that pick. He added that Rob Pelinka’s front office will also be focusing on other things as well. “They have a lot of emphasis with workouts in general, held in private of course. …A lot can also be revealed through interview process. What the approach is of a player, “Garcia added to his assessment of the Laker front office’s needs.

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Apparently, along with the skills, it does matter what type of person Pelinka and Buss are taking in. Someone who has the hunger to play more on the court will be a better fit rather than one trying to just fit in the first year. As per the draft expert Gracia, these factors might be the Lakers’ prime target. But Garcia’s assessment was not only limited to the needs; he gave the apt candidates who can deliver up to Rob Pelinka’s expectations.

Who can be the best suit for Los Angeles Lakers’ No. 17 pick?

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As per Mike Garcia, the best three candidates for the Los Angeles Lakers’ 17th pick are DaRon Holmes II, Tristan da Silva, and Jaylon Tyson. These were the three that best fit the role of the triple threat that Rob Pelinka needs for his team. DaRon is a 6’10” forward whose versatility is hailed as he plays for Dayton Flyers. Another talented prospect is Tristan, who is a great 3-and-D-wing at the college level. His prowess on the court has generated much interest. The last worthy candidate for Pelinka’s role is 6 foot 5.5 inches, standing Jaylon, who stood well in his role as a guard.

Despite having such long-reach players apt to play in the center, Garcia’s favorite pick from the lot was DaRon Holmes II. But there were certain reasons for the selection. The draft expert mentioned how Holmes’ three-point range shots are better, and his free throw rate is abnormally high, over 70%. In addition to that, Garcia further added that the young prospect can be fit as a “playmaker” at the Lakers.

There is no doubt that the Lakers need a playmaker, and Holmes fit well in those roles. However, the NBA involves some big centers that are heavy-weight. One of the big concerns for Holmes is his body weight, which is not comparable to that of elite NBA centers. Yet these stats can get better as they are related to weight. Will the Los Angeles Lakers go with such a pick? Comment down your thoughts.

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Before you go, do not forget to check out Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato open up about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud. Keep checking this space for more such updates.