Lakers nearly drafted Russ Smith over Jordan Clarkson in 2014

The Los Angeles Lakers have unearthed a second-round gem in Jordan Clarkson. But they nearly floundered that opportunity by picking Russ Smith in 2014, according to a new report.

During the 2014 NBA draft, the Lakers purchased a second-round pick (No.46 overall) from the Washington Wizards with hopes of selecting Louisville guard Russ Smith, according to Bleacher Report's Kevin Ding.

However, Ryan West, who was promoted to Director of Player Personnel last year, and Jesse Buss intervened and asked general manager Mitch Kupchak to roll with Clarkson, per Ding.

Interestingly, Smith was picked by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 47th pick and traded to the New Orleans Pelicans. Smith played a few games for the Pelicans and Memphis Grizzlies before finding a home in the Turkish League.

Clarkson has been a revelation since joining the Purple & Gold. During his rookie season, the athletic combo guard made the All-Rookie First Team for his tally of 11.9 points, 3.5 assists and 3.2 rebounds from 59 games. After a brief period in the NBA D-League, Clarkson returned to the Lakers as a starting point guard to close out the 2014-15 season.

Jordan Clarkson blossoming as a player...

Last season, Clarkson gained in strength and improved his jump shot, averaging 15 points and 4.0 rebounds as the starting shooting guard for Byron Scott's team. For his consistent performances, Clarkson was rewarded with a four-year, US$50 million (AU$67 million) contract this summer.

Many analysts reckon that Clarkson can turn into an All-Star calibre player down the road and establish himself as the Lakers' starting shooting guard for the foreseeable future. This season, new coach Luke Walton has used Clarkson in a Sixth Man capacity, a move that has helped the Purple & Gold achieve early success. With Clarkson and veteran Lou Williams coming off the bench, the Lakers are averaging 109.8 points per game, ranked third in the league behind the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers.

To his credit, Clarkson has been a consummate professional about his new role. At the start of the season, the young guard was asked if he was disappointed at being demoted to the second unit. “Nah, never. I didn’t find it disappointing or nothing. I found it just a way to help the team," said Clarkson, via LA Times.

Jordan Clarkson is averaging 14.6 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game this season. He is currently in the running for the Sixth Man of the Year award.