2019 NBA Draft: Full Mock Draft 2.0 – Pelicans take Zion; who goes next?

#4. Los Angeles Lakers: Jarrett Culver, G

School: Texas Tech | Class: Sophomore | Height: 6’6″ | Weight: 195 | Age: 20

Like the Pelicans and Grizzlies, the Los Angeles Lakers had some magic working for them in the lottery to go from the projected #11 pick to landing the 4th overall pick. LeBron James and company were likely thrilled to have a chance to jump up this high in the picking order.

Now, the Lakers have A LOT to address, but mainly: they need more shooters! Guard Josh Hart is a solid and decent shooter with 43.5% field goal and 36.1% three point percentages, although it’s only on 24.4 minutes played per game, leading to a career 7.9 points per game. With Lance Stephenson probably gone in free agency, that would open the door for an expanded role for Hart. But let’s look at the Lakers’ best option at #4: Jarrett Culver out of Texas Tech.

The sophomore guard led the Red Raiders on a phenomenal potential NCAA title run that resulted in an OT loss to Virginia in the NCAA Men’s National Championship game. Culver led the Red Raiders in points (18.5), rebounds (6.4), and assists (3.7), which are worth a hard consideration here from the Lakers.

That level of productivity on the court and leadership off the court could prove crucial in a pivotal time in Lakers’ history as they try to recover from a disappointing 2018-2019 season. Culver seems like a great choice here.

– Cody Taylor (@CodyMTSports)