2017 NBA Mock Draft: What if the Lakers don’t take Lonzo Ball?

Locking up prospects with a defined NBA skill late in the first round is certainly worthwhile for a franchise like the Brooklyn Nets who are simply in need of more talent to compete in the league. Syracuse’s Tyler Lydon certainly has his warts, but he’s also a knock down 3-point shooter at 6-foot-9.

Lydon made 39.8 percent of his 3s in college while shooting it well from the free throw line. As a low usage player, he didn’t have the highest volume, but there are other factors — like his accuracy from deep range — that should give teams confidence that his jumper will translate. Having a small ball power forward who can shoot it is incredibly valuable as it opens up driving and passing lanes for teammates in addition to providing actual offense. Lydon will need to find some other ways to contribute offensively like potentially attacking in a straight line or via improved passing, but his outside shooting is a nice base to work from.

Defensively, Lydon also has some potential. He was an excellent weak side rim protector as a freshman despite playing in Syracuse’s 2-3 zone. He is also a solid athlete who can move laterally for stretches. Lydon likely doesn’t have the quickness to guard NBA small forwards full time, which is what will restrict him to that small ball power forward role, but he should at least be able to competently defend there.
Learn more about Tyler Lydon at The Step Back.