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

By Chris Stone

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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Apr 22, 2017; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts watches his team play against the Golden State Warriors in game three of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2017; Portland, OR, USA; Portland Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts watches his team play against the Golden State Warriors in game three of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports /
Learn more about Rodions Kurucs at The Step Back.

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20

Rodions Kurucs

SF, Barcelona II

With three first round picks to work with, the Portland Trail Blazers can take some risks as they look to fill out their rotation. One position that always needs filling on NBA rosters is the wing spot, which is why Rodions Kurucs is slotted to head to Portland with pick No. 20.

Kurucs may ultimately profile out as a 3-and-D talent with some ability to create off the bounce against rotating defenses or defenders closing out on him. He’s shown some creation ability in youth international competitions, relying on his long strides to create space and get to the rack. Kurucs isn’t exceptionally explosive, though, which will limit his potential to be a primary or secondary option. The 6-foot-8 wing also still needs to turn into a more consistent 3-point shooter in order to be a reliable offensive threat. He made just over 31 percent of his triples this season in Spain’s second division.

Defensively, Kurucs length has proven valuable because of his ability to protect the rim a bit from the weak side. The 19-year old should also be able to defend multiple positions, increasing his value in switching schemes.

Kurucs may not be the creator that many thought he could be prior to this season, but his potential as a 3-and-D option who can attack when the defense gets moving forms the base for a valuable piece.

Learn more about Rodions Kurucs at The Step Back.