Hood-Schifino Pick: Lakers' Two Subsequent Selections
The Los Angeles Lakers made a splash at the 2023 NBA Draft, selecting Max Christie with the 35th overall pick. However, the real story behind the pick lies in the player they didn't draft, Jaden Hood-Schifino. The Lakers were rumored to have a strong interest in Hood-Schifino, who ultimately landed with the Indiana Pacers with the 15th overall pick.
This decision by the Lakers has led to a lot of speculation and debate, especially considering the two subsequent selections they made: Colby Jones and Kendrick Brown. Let's take a closer look at these picks and analyze their potential impact on the Lakers' future.
Understanding the Hood-Schifino Interest
The Lakers' interest in Hood-Schifino was fueled by his versatility and potential. He's a 6'5" guard with a strong frame and good ball-handling skills, capable of creating his own shot and distributing the ball effectively. His combination of scoring and playmaking abilities made him an attractive prospect for a team like the Lakers, looking for a young player to fill the void left by Russell Westbrook.
However, the Lakers opted for Christie, who was seen as a high-potential, three-and-D wing, potentially filling a different role on the roster. This decision seemed to prioritize immediate contributions over long-term development, especially given Christie's more polished skillset.
Colby Jones: A Defensive-Minded Guard
The Lakers' first pick after Christie was Colby Jones, a 6'4" guard from the University of Dayton. Jones is a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions. He's also a good rebounder for his size and possesses a high basketball IQ, showcasing strong court awareness and leadership qualities.
However, Jones' offensive game needs work. He's not a prolific scorer, and his shooting range is limited. While he can contribute on defense, the question remains whether he can develop into a reliable scoring threat in the NBA.
Kendrick Brown: High-Flying Potential
The Lakers rounded out their draft class with Kendrick Brown, a 6'5" wing from the University of Auburn. Brown is a high-flying athlete with impressive athleticism and a knack for getting to the rim. He's also a solid rebounder for his position.
However, Brown is considered a raw prospect. His shot selection needs improvement, and his decision-making can be inconsistent. He'll need to refine his offensive skills and develop his game intelligence to thrive in the NBA.
The "What If" Scenario
The Lakers' decision to pass on Hood-Schifino has led to many "what if" scenarios. Had they selected him, they would have added a young, talented guard with a higher ceiling than the players they ultimately picked. However, it's impossible to say definitively whether Hood-Schifino would have been a better fit for the Lakers than Christie, Jones, or Brown.
Looking Forward
It's too early to judge the success of the Lakers' draft picks. Christie, Jones, and Brown are all young players with potential, but they'll need time to develop their skills and adjust to the NBA game.
The Lakers' decision to prioritize immediate needs with Christie over long-term potential with Hood-Schifino could have implications for the future. However, the team's overall direction and success will depend on the development of their young core, regardless of who they selected in the draft.
Only time will tell whether the Lakers made the right decision. However, it's clear that the Hood-Schifino pick continues to be a source of intrigue and debate among Lakers fans and analysts alike.