Lakers End the NBA Draft by Selecting Robert Sacre of Gonzaga

With only two picks in the 2012 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers struggled to make an impact with incoming rookies. The first pick the Lakers made (55th overall) was purchased from the Dallas Mavericks and resulted in Los Angeles selecting shooting guard Darius Johnson-Odom out of Marquette.

Ultimately, the choice of Johnson-Odom might work in the Lakers’ favor with the 6’2″ guard having a knack for scoring. As a potential backup for Kobe Bryant at shooting guard, Johnson-Odom may have a future in Los Angeles.

Even though the Lakers went out of their way to acquire Johnson-Odom, perhaps the best selection was made five picks later. With the 60th and final pick in the draft, the Lakers selected center Robert Sacre out of Gonzaga.

Obviously, no player is replacing All-Star Andrew Bynum anytime soon, unless Dwight Howard comes to L.A., but Sacre might potentially a steal for the Lakers with the final pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. Sacre will bring some much needed energy and aggressiveness on the defensive end of the floor.

At 7’0″, Sacre is a beast in the paint and will play the role of energy-guy off the bench for Lakers Coach Mike Brown. With a physical style of play and contagious energy on the floor, Sacre may quickly become a fan-favorite in Los Angeles if given the right amount of playing time in order to make an impression.

In his final season with Gonzaga, Sacre averaged 11.6 points, 6.3 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game while shooting 51% from the floor.

With the potential departure of Pau Gasol via trade, Sacre might become useful for the Lakers in a rotation with Bynum and Jordan Hill.

Check out the video below of Sacre talking about his future in the NBA via Hoopsworld.com.

Believe Sacre is a solid pick for the Lakers? Let us know with your comments.