Los Angeles Lakers: 3 players destined for monster seasons in 2017-18

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Brook Lopez, C

Throughout the offseason, Lakers fans have been so focused on two things: the departure of D’Angelo Russell and the arrival of Ball. However, people seem to be missing one key component of Russell’s departure — the fact that Brook Lopez came over in that trade.

Last year, Lopez was easily a top-10 center for the Brooklyn Nets. Unfortunately, playing for the league’s worst team doesn’t exactly earn you a ton of recognition. However, when looking at the stats, it’s easy to see that he was the premier offensive force for the Nets.

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During the 2016-17 campaign, Lopez average 20.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.7 blocks per game. Although his rebound numbers were a career low, he nearly matched his points-per-game total and tied a career-high in assists. On top of that, he knocked down 134 three-point shots after making only three through his first eight seasons.

Put simply, the skills are there for the Hollywood native to be a star for the Lakers. That is, at least on the offensive end. While he does offer some rim protector abilities, Lopez doesn’t boast the agility or athleticism to stand out on defense. That doesn’t help Los Angeles improve on one of the NBA’s worst defenses from a season ago, but it is what it is.

We’ve already seen what type of impact Lopez can have at center. While there was some hope that Ivica Zubac could step into the starting role and shine in 2017-18, I believe Lopez gives the Lakers a legitimate threat at the 5.

Don’t be surprised if he improves on his numbers from a season ago, proving to be one of the Lakers’ top talents this year. Maybe he can convince the team to keep him around if their plan to pursue Paul George and LeBron James falls flat.

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