The Los Angeles Lakers have their full front office contingent in Chicago for the NBA Pre-Draft Combine where they will be looking at nearly every top player available in this year’s upcoming draft. The highest-rated player to attend the combine this year is Duke forward Brandon Ingram, one of the top two prospects in the draft this year.
As is normally the case with top draft prospects, Ingram did not do any of the skill tests, choosing only to be measured and talk to teams individually.
One of the teams Ingram has reportedly talked to is the Lakers, according to Mark Medina of the LA Daily News:
Other talent skipped the skills tests and media interviews, including Duke forward Brandon Ingram, Oklahoma City forward Buddy Hield and Kentucky guard Jamal Murray. The Lakers still interviewed Ingram, though they have not had any formal contact with Simmons yet.
If the Lakers are fortunate enough to land in the top-two, Ingram could very well be the Lakers selection. Ingram turned heads at Duke as an excellent scorer and shooter. He averaged 17.3 points and 6.8 rebounds while shooting 41 percent from three-point range.
His length, body type, and scoring prowess have led many to compare him to the likes of Kevin Durant and Tracy McGrady.
While it was also noted that the Lakers haven’t had contact with Simmons yet, that will surely change in time. The Lakers will do their due diligence on every draft prospect. In addition to Ingram, the Lakers have also talked to Kentucky’s Jamal Murray, reportedly coming away impressed with him. The Lakers will find out if they keep their draft pick on May 17, hopefully the team and its fans get good news on that day.