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2017 NBA Draft: Instant reaction and grades from the first round

By Michael Saenz

Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the stage before the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the stage before the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 9, 2017; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Utah Utes forward Kyle Kuzma (35) shoots inside the defense of California Golden Bears center Kingsley Okoroh (22) during the Pac-12 Conference Tournament at T-Mobile Arena. California won the game 78-75. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 9, 2017; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Utah Utes forward Kyle Kuzma (35) shoots inside the defense of California Golden Bears center Kingsley Okoroh (22) during the Pac-12 Conference Tournament at T-Mobile Arena. California won the game 78-75. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports /

27. Los Angeles Lakers (from Brooklyn Nets and Celtics) – Kyle Kuzma, F, Utah

Kyle Kuzma isn’t a great shooter but did average 16 points and nearly nine rebounds per game during his junior season at Utah. He shot 50 percent from the field but only 32 percent from the field.

He might struggle to remain on the court in a changing NBA, but he’s a solid risk type pick for the Los Angeles Lakers. This is the type of pick that gives depth to a frontcourt position that needs it.

Kuzma likely won’t see big minutes in year 1, but he could develop into a good player down the road.

Grade: C