Lakers News: How Jalen Hood-Schifino Intends To Make Immediate Impact As A Rookie

When your Los Angeles Lakers made the selection of Jalen Hood-Schifino on Thursday night, it came at the expense of some frustrations from Laker fans. It wasn't due to the player being taken by the team but because the Lakers didn't make a trade with their 17th overall selection to better improve the roster.

Hood-Schifino is a fine player but many wanted the Lakers to move back in the draft while recouping an additional asset. However, the team prioritized their future with this pick and quite possibly a piece to help win next season. Hood-Schifino spoke about what he brings to the table and how he can help LA win next year, per Jovan Buha of The Athletic.

“I would just say I’m an all-around player,” Hood-Schifino said. “I check a lot of boxes. Obviously, a big guard. I feel like I can score from all three levels. Really unselfish. Floor general.”

He checks a lot of boxes for the Lakers, including being a bigger and versatile point guard. It was something that the team lacked during the postseason this year and having him could really help them throughout the year.

While he isn't the greatest three-point shooter, Hood-Schifino has the tools to improve from deep. He thrives in the midrange and normally that can be an indicator of a player having the ability to learn how to shoot better from three. He also uses his 6'6 length to body smaller defenders when attacking the basket.

This pick gives the Lakers some insurances at the position in case they lose some of their free agent point guards to other teams. He can provide them with some fresh legs to use during games and he knows how to run an offense effectively.

The more film that I watch of Jalen Hood-Schifino, the more impressed I am

Great pick by the #LakeShow
— Matthew Levine (@Levine1445) June 23, 2023

Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka spoke highly of the now rookie and what he loved about him. He said that he was a “lottery-level talent” and that the Lakers didn't foresee him being available when they picked. The team deserves the benefit of the doubt due to their recent history with drafting players.

Let's all take a breath and be excited that the team got a new, exciting young player t add to the Laker family. He could be a solid role piece as the team goes for banner number 18 next season.

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