While the Los Angeles Lakers have held workouts for over a month, the entire front office understood the importance of a particular workout slated on June 7. That date meant the arrival of prospect Lonzo Ball, who many believe the Lakers will select with the No.2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft.
Magic Johnson, Rob Pelinka and Luke Walton all sat down with Ball for dinner and some NBA conversations Tuesday night. That dinner plays a pivotal role in understanding the UCLA product’s personality and what he envisions for himself.
However, Wednesday meant Ball could display his talents on the court. Upon the conclusion of the workout, Ball was available to the media, discussing the process and various questions. One surprising reaction came when Lonzo stated that the Lakers brass all appreciate his father, LaVar Ball, via Mark Medina of the L.A. Daily News:
Lonzo Ball said the Lakers brass said they love his dad
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) June 7, 2017
It seems as though LaVar has been portrayed as a villain since he burst onto the scene, whether due to his questionable remarks or his enormous confidence in Lonzo. However, the Lakers are showing a different approach to the situation thus far, confirming they appreciate what LaVar has been able to do.
Although Walton stated that LaVar would not be allowed at Lonzo’s workout, that denial should be taken with a grain of salt. The Lakers are drafting Lonzo for his talent and want a personal one-on-one setting to be able to analyze his game, with a unique skill set that can aide any NBA team.
With the 2017 NBA Draft slated for June 22, the Lakers have just over two weeks to wrap up their workouts and come to a conclusion as to who will be the next integral piece of this historic franchise.