Predicting The Futures Of The Los Angeles Lakers’ Rising Stars

PF Julius Randle: Above-Average Starter

It’s been a bumpy road for Julius Randle since the Lakers made him the No. 7 overall pick in 2014. He missed all of his rookie season with a broken leg, and is currently rehabbing from a laceration on his hand. Still, the future appears bright for the young forward.

The only problem is fans won’t like just how bright I think it will actually be.

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Realistically, I think Randle could be a staple in the Lakers’ starting lineup for years to come. He’s an excellent rebounder, reliable defender and capable scorer. Unfortunately, I don’t think he brings the star power to Los Angeles that many thought he did–at least not on a consistent basis.

Randle’s game has some holes. He tries his best to create his own shot, but it often feels forced and leads to unnecessary poor attempts at the basket. His ball handling is still a work in progress, and his defensive stats (namely, steals and blocks) need to improve moving forward.

Randle is also always going to be at a disadvantage considering his lack of height for the position.

Some have compared him to Draymond Green, and it’s a reasonable comparison. Unfortunately, I don’t think he’ll ever hit that point in his development. He shined during what was essentially his rookie season, but I think he’ll plateau as an above-average starter and exceptional rebounder.

With so many other rising stars, the Lakers don’t need him to be an All-Star. They just need him to be a reliable presence in the paint.

Next: The Former Second-Round Pick At SG