5 Bold Predictions For Los Angeles Lakers 2016 Training Camp

1. Larry Nance Jr. Steals The Starting PF Job

Now here’s the big one. All of the other predictions up to this point were already considerations to some degree. However, I doubt many people are thinking Nance actually stands a chance of beating out Randle for the starting gig.

And yet, here we are.

Nance has proven to be an underrated asset, both on offense and defense. The former first-round pick is a terrific athlete, with the instincts and awareness to make an impact on both ends of the court. He seems like a perfect fit for Walton’s new up-tempo attack.

Meanwhile, Randle isn’t quite as strong of a fit. While he’s an outstanding rebounder, his offensive game is inconsistent at best and he hasn’t show an ability to be effective in the pick and roll.

As promising of a prospect as he was when the Los Angeles Lakers drafted him, Randle hasn’t lived up to expectations.

That’s not to say he couldn’t eventually develop into a star. Randle is still a work in progress, and showed impressive maturation last season. However, when it all comes down to it, Nance may be the better starting option at this very moment.

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Randle can come off the bench and be a leader of the second unit. That’s my “bold” prediction, and I’m sticking to it–for now.