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

Jan 25, 2017; Tempe, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles the ball against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Sun Devils won 86-75. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 25, 2017; Tempe, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles the ball against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Sun Devils won 86-75. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Luke Kennard
Mar 10, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) reacts after hitting a three-point shot against the North Carolina Tar Heels during the second half of an ACC Conference Tournament game at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
Learn more about Luke Kennard at The Step Back.

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16

Luke Kennard

SG, Duke

The Chicago Bulls should be prepared to pull the trigger on building their roster around Jimmy Butler’s ability to create offense and that means loading up the roster with competent shooters who can help space the floor. Duke’s Luke Kennard would be an excellent fit for that project as one of the top wing shooters in this class.

Kennard made 43.8 percent of his triples as a sophomore while attempting a high volume of them and shooting it well from the foul line. His shot should translate to the NBA 3-point line and if it does, it will open up some of his secondary creator potential that defines his upside. Kennard is capable off the dribble mostly because of his comfort in shooting off the dribble, but he’s also a solid passer who can make simple reads to the corners or dive man out of pick-and-roll. He also has enough counter moves in his arsenal to create space for his jumper in the mid-range.

Defensively, Kennard lacks the physical profile necessary to be an elite defender, but he has the strength to guard a few positions and should at least be able to work competently in a team scheme.

Learn more about Luke Kennard at The Step Back.