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Los Angeles Lakers: 3 takeaways from their preseason opener

By Michael Dugger

ANAHEIM, CA - SEPTEMBER 30: Luke Walton of the Los Angeles Lakers high fives Lonzo Ball NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
ANAHEIM, CA - SEPTEMBER 30: Luke Walton of the Los Angeles Lakers high fives Lonzo Ball NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images
Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images /

2. Brandon Ingram and Julius Randle first act as offensive focal points

Giving Brandon Ingram and Julius Randle a larger scoring role offensively was expected this season as they continue their growth as young NBA players. With Brook Lopez sitting out this game, Ingram and Randle were the best two options in the half-court. They took advantage of the extra shots and finished first and second on the team in attempted field goals in 22 minutes apiece.

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Randle was the more efficient of the two, scoring 15 points on 7-of-14 shooting. He looked quicker attacking the baskets in his talked-up new physique, and should be able to drive on slower-footed big men in the league. Randle moved the ball well on the perimeter and maintained his share of ball handling duties. He did miss both of his 3-point attempts.

Brandon Ingram was tipped to lead the Los Angeles Lakers in scoring this season by Magic Johnson and ended up leading the team with 15 shots taken. Ingram rightfully struggled during his rookie season, but has received a lot of preseason hype based off an offseason of constant work in the Lakers’ practice facility. Despite a poor shooting percentage, Ingram showed off his scoring arsenal.

Ingram was aggressive from the start, converting just 4-of-15 field goal attempts in just 22 minutes. He made one of his 3-point shots, finished a tough drive and scored on a quick turnaround jumper after Lonzo found him cutting to the basket. Lonzo’s teammates at UCLA found success cutting to the block and shooting in one motion, so Ingram is wise to add this move to his repertoire.

Both Ingram and Randle will see an increased usage rate this season, but I’m still expecting Brook Lopez to take the most shots on the team. He is the most-skilled offensive player and could be leaned on until the other two show they can shoulder the load consistently. Lopez’s prescence will help Ingram and Randle by opening up the floor with his shooting.

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