2017 NBA Rookie Ladder: Joel Embiid Leading The Race Early

Oct 26, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) punches the back post in reaction to his foul against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Oklahoma City Thunder won 103-97. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 19, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Brandon Ingram (14) gestures as Golden State Warriors forward Andre Iguodala (9) defends during the fourth quarter at Valley View Casino Center. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Brandon Ingram, Los Angeles Lakers

I’m not sure fans expected Brandon Ingram‘s debut for the Los Angeles Lakers to be without much scoring.

Through three games, Ingram’s only put up 20 total points on 18 attempts from the field. Those shooting numbers aren’t anywhere near efficient, but that’s not the plan for him right away.

Lakers head coach Luke Walton said his plan for Ingram this season is to develop in other areas of the game. Defense and playmaking are two areas that were stressed he needed to improve in.

Right away Ingram’s matched up on better scorers and has brought the ball up the floor. Even though he’s coming off the bench, he’s still getting enough minutes to make an impact.

Unfortunately it’s just not what fans entirely expected. But as he gets comfortable he’ll convert at a better rate. Ingram will find his spots–particularly from deep–in time, so there’s not much to worry about yet.

It’s still early for most of these guys, so patience is important to keep in mind.

If he’s able to become more well-rounded in his rookie season he’ll be better off in the long run.