NBA Mock Draft 2017, Week 17: Portland uses three first round picks
By Chris Stone
Ball has fundamentally transformed the Bruins’ offense by helping head coach Steve Alford turn it into a more free-flowing system that emphasizes ball movement and making the extra pass. Much of its success, though, starts with Ball’s passing ability and court vision. The freshman is an elite passer who can sling dimes through tight spaces or toss outlets the length of the court. Ball and D’Angelo Russell would form an interchangeable backcourt with the ability to pass, shoot and slash.
The pairing’s biggest issues would come on defense where neither player is especially athletic. Ball’s length is valuable here because he can defend multiple positions even if he doesn’t do it well. That will allow him to be hidden in the worst case scenario. Ball does add some value on defense because his high IQ allows him to snipe passes and create turnovers going the other way. Still, the Lakers would likely need to back up Ball and Russell with a quality rim protector.
Learn more about Lonzo Ball at The Step Back.
" >Lonzo Ball
PG, UCLA
Ball has fundamentally transformed the Bruins’ offense by helping head coach Steve Alford turn it into a more free-flowing system that emphasizes ball movement and making the extra pass. Much of its success, though, starts with Ball’s passing ability and court vision. The freshman is an elite passer who can sling dimes through tight spaces or toss outlets the length of the court. Ball and D’Angelo Russell would form an interchangeable backcourt with the ability to pass, shoot and slash.
The pairing’s biggest issues would come on defense where neither player is especially athletic. Ball’s length is valuable here because he can defend multiple positions even if he doesn’t do it well. That will allow him to be hidden in the worst case scenario. Ball does add some value on defense because his high IQ allows him to snipe passes and create turnovers going the other way. Still, the Lakers would likely need to back up Ball and Russell with a quality rim protector.