The Los Angeles Lakers have been doing something over the last few seasons that they don’t get enough credit for. Everyone looks at Miami and Toronto as the best places for under-appreciated talent to go and improve their game within their coaching systems. However, the Lakers have been proficient at developing homegrown talent.
Alex Caruso is the biggest example, with Austin Reaves emerging in Caruso’s absence. Stanley Johnson’s career got a lifeboat after the Lakers gave him a two-year contract. The Lakers can find good talent and use them on their team, something they are looking to do this year without a draft pick.
The Lakers have scheduled a workout with Shaquille O’Neal’s son, Shareef. Shareef will be a part of the 2022 NBA Draft in his final year of eligibility as a 22-year-old. He isn’t expected to be drafted in the 60 draft positions but is a likely candidate to sign a contract.
Shareef O’Neal is scheduled to have an upcoming draft workout with the Lakers, reports @jovanbuha.
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 10, 2022
Shareef hasn’t had a fantastic career as a basketball player. he doesn’t have the same raw power or athleticism as his dad. In addition, Shareef has had his fair share of health issues that have been hindering his career. But the story of Shaq’s son joining the Lakers is also a fantastic PR opportunity for the team.
If Shareef can impress in his workout and get signed by the Lakers, getting rotational minutes in his rookie season will be quite unlikely. The 22-year-old averaged 2.9 points in 9.2 minutes in the NCAA season last year. These numbers won’t jump out at any scouts or front offices.
The Lakers aren’t the only ones trying Shareef out, so it may be a good decision to stay in tune with the kid’s progress. However, signing him as a genuine roster piece may be a little worrisome for the Lakers.
