2017 Lakers Draft: Lonzo Ball And Beyond

What's up, basketball fanatics! Let's take a trip down memory lane back to the 2017 NBA Draft, a pivotal moment for the Los Angeles Lakers. This draft class was absolutely stacked, and the Lakers had a massive opportunity to reshape their future. They were coming off a string of losing seasons, and the fan base was hungry for a turnaround. The buzz around the draft was palpable, with so many exciting prospects ready to make their mark on the league. For the Lakers, the main event was picking high in the lottery, and boy, did they deliver. The anticipation was through the roof as draft night approached, and everyone was wondering who the Purple and Gold would select to lead the next era of Lakers basketball. This draft wasn't just about one pick; it was about building a foundation, finding stars, and injecting new life into one of the most storied franchises in all of sports. So, grab your popcorn, guys, because we're diving deep into the 2017 NBA Draft and how it set the stage for what was to come for the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Lakers' Lottery Luck and the Top Pick

Alright, let's talk about the main attraction: the 2017 NBA Draft lottery for the Lakers. After years of rebuilding and some tough seasons, luck finally smiled upon the Lakers. They secured the second overall pick in the draft, and the entire NBA world knew exactly who they were targeting: Lonzo Ball. Ball was a hometown hero, a flashy point guard out of UCLA with an incredible passing vision and a unique shooting form that had everyone talking. The hype surrounding him was immense, fueled by his incredible college season and his outspoken father, LaVar Ball. For the Lakers, drafting Lonzo wasn't just about adding talent; it was a statement. It was about bringing in a player who could immediately change the team's identity, a playmaker who could elevate the talent around him and reignite the excitement in Los Angeles. The pressure on a young player like Lonzo to perform in the bright lights of LA is immense, but the Lakers saw him as the franchise cornerstone they desperately needed. His passing ability was something the league hadn't seen in a while, and the potential for him to run the offense and create highlight-reel plays was incredibly enticing. This pick was seen as the first domino to fall in what the Lakers hoped would be a resurgence back to championship contention. The decision to select him was met with a mix of excitement and scrutiny, but the Lakers organization was confident they had found their point guard of the future. The 2017 Lakers draft pick of Lonzo Ball was, without a doubt, the most talked-about move of their draft night, setting the tone for the entire evening and the franchise's direction.

Lonzo Ball: The Chosen One?

When the Lakers officially announced Lonzo Ball as their selection with the second overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, the energy in Los Angeles was electric. This was it, guys, the player they hoped would be the next Magic Johnson, the face of the franchise for years to come. Lonzo's college stats were eye-popping, averaging nearly a triple-double and showcasing a flair for the game that was impossible to ignore. His court vision was elite, his passes were often spectacular, and he had a knack for making his teammates better. However, his shooting form was a major talking point, and questions lingered about whether he could become a consistent scoring threat at the NBA level. Despite these concerns, the Lakers were enamored with his playmaking ability and his potential to transform their offense. The narrative around Lonzo was amplified by his father, LaVar Ball, whose constant media presence and bold predictions added another layer of drama to an already high-stakes situation. LaVar's involvement put Lonzo under an even brighter spotlight, but Lonzo himself seemed to handle the pressure with a quiet confidence on the court. For the Lakers, drafting Lonzo was a gamble, but it was a calculated one. They believed his unique skillset and leadership potential would be infectious for the rest of the young roster. The hope was that he would be the catalyst for change, the player who would usher in a new era of winning basketball for the Purple and Gold. The Lakers' 2017 draft choice of Ball was a clear signal that they were ready to move on from their previous rebuilding struggles and were investing heavily in a high-upside player with the potential to be a superstar. It was a bold move, and the city was ready to embrace their new point guard.

Beyond Ball: Other Key Lakers Draft Picks in 2017

While Lonzo Ball was undoubtedly the headline of the 2017 NBA Draft for the Lakers, they didn't stop there. A franchise's success isn't built on just one player, and the Lakers made some other crucial selections that night to bolster their roster. With their second-round pick, the 27th overall, they snagged Kyle Kuzma. Kuzma, a forward out of Utah, was a bit of a surprise pick for some, but he quickly proved his worth. He showed flashes of being a dynamic scorer and a capable rebounder, offering valuable offensive punch off the bench. He became a fan favorite for his fearless approach and his ability to hit clutch shots. Kuzma's development throughout his rookie season and beyond was a testament to the Lakers' scouting department and their ability to find hidden gems. He provided much-needed scoring depth and became an integral part of the team's rotation, especially during their championship run a few years later. The Lakers also made another second-round pick, acquiring Josh Hart at 30th overall. Hart, a guard from Villanova, was known for his toughness, defensive intensity, and surprisingly effective offensive game. He was a relentless competitor, a player who always seemed to be in the right place at the right time, making hustle plays and contributing in various ways. Hart quickly established himself as a reliable role player, providing solid defense and timely scoring. His grit and determination made him a valuable asset, and he became a fan favorite for his all-out effort. These later picks, Kuzma and Hart, proved to be excellent value for the Lakers, adding depth, versatility, and a competitive fire to the team. The 2017 Lakers draft strategy wasn't just about the top pick; it was about finding complementary pieces who could contribute to the team's long-term success. These guys provided exactly that, exceeding expectations and becoming important parts of the Lakers' future.

The Impact and Legacy of the 2017 Draft Class

So, what's the legacy of the 2017 NBA Draft for the Los Angeles Lakers, guys? It's a mixed bag, but undeniably significant. The headliner, Lonzo Ball, showed flashes of brilliance with his incredible passing and playmaking. When he was on the court and healthy, he often quarterbacked the offense effectively, creating opportunities for his teammates and energizing the crowd. However, his time with the Lakers was plagued by injuries, limiting his consistent availability and hindering his development. Despite the injuries, Lonzo's impact on the court was evident, showcasing the potential that made him the second overall pick. On the other hand, Kyle Kuzma and Josh Hart turned out to be incredible steals for the Lakers in that draft. Kuzma, in particular, developed into a key offensive weapon, providing much-needed scoring and versatility. He was instrumental in the Lakers' 2020 NBA Championship run, playing a crucial role off the bench. His ability to create his own shot and hit difficult baskets made him an invaluable asset. Josh Hart, with his tenacious defense, rebounding, and surprisingly efficient scoring, became a reliable role player and a fan favorite. He brought an intensity and a winning mentality to the team every night. The 2017 Lakers draft ultimately provided the team with foundational pieces that contributed to their eventual championship success, even if the journey wasn't as straightforward as initially hoped. While Lonzo's Lakers tenure was shorter than anticipated, Kuzma and Hart became vital cogs in the machine that brought a title back to LA. It's a reminder that sometimes, the later picks in a draft can be just as impactful, if not more so, than the highly touted lottery selections. This draft class, in many ways, helped set the stage for the Lakers' return to glory, proving that smart drafting and player development are key to building a winning franchise.

Looking Back: What Could Have Been?

As we reflect on the 2017 NBA Draft and the Lakers' selections, it's natural to wonder about the