Los Angeles Lakers: 3 most underrated players heading into 2017-18

Brook Lopez, C

I honestly think it’s the hype that’s been swirling around the addition of Lonzo Ball. Or maybe it’s the big money the Lakers spent to bring Caldwell-Pope to Los Angeles for a year. Whatever the reason may be, people are overlooking the fact that Brook Lopez is a Laker.

To an extent, I get it. More than likely, Lopez is nothing more than a one-year rental as the Lakers look to make a tsunami-sized splash during 2018 free agency. They aren’t going to be able to afford to go through with their plans of signing two superstars while also re-signing Lopez, which means his time in Los Angeles will be short-lived.

That, however, doesn’t excuse anyone from overlooking the outstanding big man.

The other problem for Lopez is that, last season, he played for the Brooklyn Nets. Being the star of the show for the NBA’s worst team doesn’t exactly earn you considerable recognition. At the same time, it doesn’t discount the tremendous impact Lopez made for the Nets a season ago.

In 75 appearances, Lopez averaged 20.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.7 blocks per contest in 2016-17. He also added a three-point shot, connecting on 134 of his 387 (34.6 percent) shots from downtown. Considering he had only made three in his eight NBA seasons prior to that, it was an impressive showing.

Next: 5 Lakers with the most to prove in 2017-18

Although Lopez is a bit limited defensively, he still provides the Lakers with an impactful, experienced starter at center. His presence may stunt Ivica Zubac‘s development, but it should help Los Angeles stay competitive in 2017-18 — enticing top free agents in the process.