re: Why we don't want to defer the Lakers pick

Saw this mock draft on NBA.com posted last week. Here is what they have for our pick(s):

13. New Orleans Pelicans (via Lakers): Dalton Knecht

Previous mock draft spot: No. 13
School: Tennessee
Nationality: American
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
Age: 22
Pro comparison: Max Strus
History says to be careful with players who will turn 23 by the draft. But teams may have just missed on Dalton Knecht last year at Northern Colorado. His 2023-24 production and percentages at Tennessee are nearly identical. Four consecutive 25-point-plus games against SEC opponents have highlighted Knecht’s pro-like shotmaking, scoring skill and frame.

18. New Orleans Pelicans: Tyler Smith

Previous mock draft spot: No. 12
Team: G League Ignite
Nationality: American
Position: PF
Size: 6-foot-11, 224 lbs
Age: 19
Pro comparison: Bobby Portis
At 29 games in, Tyler Smith has been steady enough with his shooting for NBA teams to expect a surefire stretch-4 role player. No projectable off-the-dribble scoring or serious indicators for defensive upside suggest he’ll be more of a supporting piece. But at 6-foot-11, his ability to space the floor, pick-and-pop, and finish plays around the basket could still earn him 20-25 minutes with the right team.