Lakers interest in Zhaire Smith seems like a smoke screen
Recent reports claim the Los Angeles Lakers are looking to move up in the draft to acquire Zhaire Smith. But he doesn’t seem like the sort of player Los Angeles needs.
As the NBA Draft approaches it’s safe to assume we’ll hear more and more reports about various teams moving up to select their favorite prospects. One such report links the Los Angeles Lakers with a move up the board to take Texas Tech guard Zhaire Smith. This one feels more like a smoke screen than anything else.
There’s no question that Smith is one of the best athletes in this year’s draft. That doesn’t mean he’s a good fit for the Lakers. With Lonzo Ball firmly installed as the team’s starting point guard, it’s clear that Los Angeles needs to surround him with top-notch shooters.
Despite the fact that Smith shot over 45 percent from three last year for the Red Raiders, his jump shot is a serious question mark. There’s little evidence on film to indicate he’s able to do anything but make an occasional stand still jumper. The Lakers need to pair Ball with a shooter who can stroke threes in a variety of ways.
Perhaps things would be different if Smith could slide down and play the three. That was the position most scouts believed he would play heading into the Draft combine. Unfortunately, measuring in at a height of six-foot-two will relegate Smith to playing the off guard position at the next level.
Leaking the report is still a good move by the Lakers’ front office. It’s very likely they’re interested in an entirely different player. Making other teams believe they’re ready to make a big move to take Smith might force another team to make a move of their own to grab the athletic wing. That could, in theory, clear the way for the Lakers to swoop in on the real object of their affection.
Next: Zhaire Smith comes up short at the NBA Draft Combine
Expect to hear loads of other reports linking teams with first round prospects from now until draft night. It’s all part of what makes the event magic for fans and executives all around the NBA.