The Sixer Sense
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2021 NBA Mock Draft 2.0: Pistons get bold, Warriors make blockbuster trade

By Christopher Kline

Davion Mitchell of Baylor (left); Jalen Suggs of GonzagaNBA Mock DraftBaygonzSyndication: The Indianapolis Star
Davion Mitchell of Baylor (left); Jalen Suggs of GonzagaNBA Mock DraftBaygonzSyndication: The Indianapolis Star /
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(Photo by David Becker/Getty Images)
(Photo by David Becker/Getty Images) /

player. 20. . PG. Los Angeles Lakers. Jared Butler. 22

2021 NBA Mock Draft — 22. Jared Butler, Los Angeles Lakers

So long as he is cleared to play, Jared Butler has immediate impact potential. He was one of the best players in college basketball last season and led Baylor to the NCAA title. The Lakers need depth at point guard, especially if Dennis Schroder follows the money elsewhere this offseason. Butler can run the show with ample confidence.

Butler gets where he wants with the basketball. He’s not a great athlete, but he’s quick on his first step, and has more than enough craft to generate space off the dribble. He’s a bonafide three-level threat, with the defensive intensity and off-ball potential to stick in LA’s rotation right away.

The Lakers need help on the perimeter. Butler can relieve pressure from LeBron James, and has more than enough shot-making juice to coexist. Poor guard depth was a key source of pain in the Phoenix series, and it would be wise for the Lakers to take advantage of a deep guard class.