Phoenix Suns 2017 Re-Draft: PHX Avoids Josh Jackson, Adds a Superstar

Phoenix Suns 2017 NBA Re-Draft: Pick #2

The Los Angeles Lakers moved on from D’Angelo Russell and chose Lonzo Ball with the 2017 NBA Draft’s second overall pick. However, Ball ended up operating as a key trade asset to help Lakers acquire Anthony Davis, rather than anything else.

Given a re-draft opportunity, the Lakers might stick with Ball just to make sure they still end up landing Davis. But even if they took someone else, they probably still find a way to reel in Davis, and if not, still add an incredibly talent piece compatible to LeBron James.

With Jayson Tatum sitting behind Brandon Ingram at this time, he likely draws less interest following his rookie year, and possibly avoids New Orleans’s attention during discussions involving Davis. If this miracle scenario indeed plays out for the Lakers, they end up with James, Davis and Tatum eventually coming into his own just a few years later. That makes for a fearsome squad that still wins the 2020 NBA Championship and stands well-equipped to do so again during the coming years.

Last year, Tatum averaged an outstanding 26.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. Just like Mitchell, he remains a talented three-level scorer which any team would drool over the chance to build a team around.

Worst case scenario though? Tatum shines too bright to hide from New Orleans during his rookie year, so they ship him away for Davis…and still end up with a championship, and a few extra assets based off Tatum’s greater value compared to Ball’s. Not bad by any means.