Lakers Rumors: Perry Jones III Would Be Perfect Fit in L.A.

The Los Angeles Lakers are looking to move into the first round of the upcoming NBA draft, according to Sam Amico of Fox Sports.

Amico reported the rumor via Twitter.

"

Lakers "making real push" to get into 1st round of NBA Draft, says EC exec. Word is they like the Baylor guys: Perry Jones & Quincy Miller.

— Sam Amico (@SamAmicoFSO) June 21, 2012"

Perry Jones III and Quincy Miller are both long, athletic forwards who starred for Baylor last season and are likely to be first-round picks.

ESPN’s Chad Ford currently has Jones going at No. 19 to the Orlando Magic and Miller going at No. 24 to the Cleveland Cavaliers in his latest mock draft. 

Jones was the more productive of the pair, putting up 13.5 points and 7.6 rebounds. Miller averaged 10.6 points and 4.9 rebounds. 

If the Lakers are going to give up players in order to get one of these prospects, it should be Jones.

He was measured at the combine at 6’11.25” with a wingspan of 7’1.75” and is a remarkable athlete.

Even at his size, he is smooth and explosive enough to play small forward, but he is also strong enough to play down low. He would instantly become the best athlete on the Lakers.

Concerns that have been raised over Jones include his lack of production in college and his incomplete skill set.  His athleticism is his only elite quality, as he does not have a reliable jump shot or any go-to post moves. 

However, the Lakers badly need athleticism, and he would be an huge upgrade to a second unit that was terrible last season. As HoopStats.com notes, the Lakers were dead last in bench scoring last season.

Jones would immediately bring excitement and energy to the Lakers’ second unit and has the potential to develop into a productive starter. 

He is the type of versatile athlete that can help the team out in multiple ways. His length and rebounding skills will help the team on the defensive end of the floor, and his speed can help the Lakers in transition. 

Jones is an ideal fit and the team would be wise to orchestrate a deal to move into the first round and draft him.