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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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Feb 9, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) reacts to a score against the Temple Owls during the second half at Liacouras Center. Southern Methodist Mustangs won 66-50. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 9, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Southern Methodist Mustangs forward Semi Ojeleye (33) reacts to a score against the Temple Owls during the second half at Liacouras Center. Southern Methodist Mustangs won 66-50. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Semi Ojeleye

SF/PF, SMU

The Toronto Raptors showed a preference for acquiring versatile defenders at the trade deadline and will likely extend that philosophy to the NBA Draft opening up the possibility that they will go with SMU combo forward Semi Ojeleye. Add in the fact that the Raptors are still trying to find a consistent option at the power forward spot and Ojeleye becomes an even more attractive prospect.

The 6-foot-7 swingman weighed in at 241 pounds and less than six percent body fat at the Combine, giving him the frame needed to handle playing against larger opponents in the NBA. The thing holding Ojeleye back from being a higher ranked prospect is his 6-foot-10 wingspan and 8-foot-6 standing reach, two numbers that will likely limit his upside as a weak side rim protector. However, he has the lateral mobility to step out on the perimeter and the bulk to keep players from backing him down. In a league that prioritizes switching and versatility, that combination matters.

Ojeleye can also bring some production on the offensive end even if he only pans out as a spot up shooter. He made 42.4 percent of his 3-point attempts this season after using his transfer year to refine his jumper. Ojeleye can attack a bit in a straight line, but that skill may not translate against NBA opponents.