5 Things We’ve Learned From The Los Angeles Lakers’ Early-Season Action

D’Angelo Russell Isn’t Yet Ready To Be The Guy

Before the regular season, I predicted that D’Angelo Russell would immediately emerge as the heir apparent to Kobe Bryant‘s throne as the king of Los Angeles. Unfortunately, as you probably know, that hasn’t quite been the case.

While Russell currently leads the team in points per game (15.4), he’s been rather inconsistent this season. In three of eight games, he’s shot 30 percent or less from the field. The sophomore guard has also committed way too many turnovers while being extremely streaky on offense.

Obviously Bryant had his fair share of bad games, but Russell is still a long way from being the true No. 1. Just ask the Lakers’ top five scoring leaders, who are all currently averaging between 15.4 and 14.5 points per game.

Not the type of dominance you want from the potential face of the franchise.

Russell took some time to get going as a rookie, but appeared ready to take a step in his maturation based on his play during Summer League and the preseason. While that step may come in the near future, we haven’t seen it yet.

The Lakers need someone who can be “the guy.” Russell may very well be the man who assumes that role somewhere down the road, but he’s not quite ready.