The idea that new Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick might get a former Blue Devil in the NBA draft sounds almost like a movie script, but College Sports Wire’s Andy Patton thinks it’s a strong possibility.
Patton released a new two-round NBA mock draft on Monday morning, just two days before Wednesday’s first round, and he paired sophomore 7-footer Kyle Filipowski with the iconic franchise at 17th overall.
Patton didn’t just make the connection because of Duke, either. He said that Filipowski, who averaged 16.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.8 assists, would fit with the franchise well.
“Filipowski is a nice fit on this roster next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis,” Patton wrote. “The big man can space the floor and is a quality connector, and would provide the Lakers with an experienced, winning frontcourt player to play off Davis.”
ESPN Analytics said Filipowski has a remarkable range of outcomes, from the mid-teens to the second round, but the Lakers would be close to the highest possible expected spot for the Second Team All-American. However, ESPN’s Jeremy Woo mentioned that Filipowski met with each team from the ninth pick through the 13th during the pre-draft process.
The 2024 NBA draft begins on Wednesday night and can be watched on ABC and ESPN.