2017 NBA Mock Draft, Week 12: The Lakers keep their pick

After the first 12 picks come off the board (and arguably just the first 11 pending the status of OG Anunoby), this draft class seemingly becomes much more fluid with regards to the best available prospects. Because of that, expect plenty of volatility even at the end of the lottery.

Here, the Indiana Pacers take a risk on a wing prospect that can help the team build around a core of Paul George and Myles Turner going forward by providing spacing and defense. Terrance Ferguson, a former five-star recruit, who is spending this season overseas in Australia rather than in college is a lengthy swingman with great 3-and-D potential.

At 6-foot-7 with a 6-foot-10 wingspan, Ferguson has the necessary size to become an imposing force on the defensive end. With added weight, he should be able to defend multiple positions by using his lateral quickness and length to contain penetration and his size to battle bigger opponents. So far, Ferguson has struggled to make a statistical impact on the defensive end, but the potential is there.

Ferguson is also still a streaky shooter, but his McDonald’s All-American Game performance where he made seven 3-pointers is a reminder of his offensive potential. The 18-year old will take some time to figure out where he belongs and how best to utilize his offensive game, but Ferguson is a nice upside play for the Pacers.