Re-Drafting the 2014 NBA Draft

20. <p><strong>Original pick: Julius Randle</strong></p> <p>This partnership appears poised to last.</p> <p>The Lakers actually did select Julius Randle, and that value seems to be just right at this stage. The former Kentucky standout had a lost season as a rookie, playing in just one game before exiting due to a year-long injury, but Randle displayed enough of his talent in year two to justify this draft slot.</p> <p>The 21-year-old power forward is a terror on the glass, averaging 10.2 rebounds per game while playing only 28.2 minutes per contest. That isn’t necessarily what Los Angeles could have predicted given Randle’s relative lack of height, but at the same time, he is tenacious in pursuing the ball and that trait can go a long way.</p> <p>Randle is also adept as a scorer, even without a consistent threat from the outside. He made just ten threes during the entire 2015-2016 season, and Randle will need to develop shooting range in order to reach his theoretical ceiling. Still, he is crafty around the rim and Randle uses his physicality to create advantages in a way that young players don’t often grasp.</p> <p>“Star” potential isn’t something that is particularly evident with Randle, but he looks like an above-average power forward in the future and that is more than enough.</p>. PF. Kentucky. Julius Randle. 7. player