Lakers News: Does LA Intend To Keep Or Trade Jalen Hood-Schifino This Summer?

After the Los Angeles Lakers made their selection of Jalen Hood-Schifino, there was major speculation on whether the team would end up using the guard in a later trade or actually keep him for the roster next season. Hood-Schifino had an excellent freshman season for Indiana University and became an intriguing option for LA to take in the first round.

Lakers insider Dan Woike of The LA Times gave some insight into what the team plans to do with their first round selection.

After discussing various trade scenarios, sources say the Lakers are keeping the pick. Hood-Schifino will be a Laker. https://t.co/xuhEZj35yH
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) June 23, 2023

According to him, the team will keep the two-way point guard and use him to help the team next season. LA sees him as an asset that can help them win with his ability to run an offense and defensive skillset.

Hood-Schifino was effective for Indiana last season, averaging 13.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. He was coached by former NBA head coach Mike Woodson so he should be more than prepared to handle life in the NBA. Woodson has spoken about the guard and says that he is ready to work and is a great kid.

Spoke to Indiana coach Mike Woodson about Jalen Hood-Schifino - praised his work ethic and consistency. Loved the fit between the player and the organization- quotes will be in my story later tonight.
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) June 23, 2023

The pairing between the two sides seems great. LA needed a point guard and now they have a young one who is bigger and versatile. Hood-Schifino is 6-foot-6 and uses his length to his advantage against smaller defenders and is able to check players out on the perimeter.

General Manager Rob Pelinka said that the team was surprised that he was still on the board at number 17 so after looking into different options, such as making a trade, they selected him. The young guard will be coming in to try and help the team win banner number 18 next season and it'll be exciting to see how it all plays out.

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