Los Angeles Lakers: 3 takeaways from preseason game No. 2
1. Kyle Kuzma is perfect for this NBA
After his second straight game leading the Los Angeles Lakers in scoring, Kyle Kuzma is making a serious case to be the first or second player off the bench with his NBA Summer League and preseason performances. Kuzma was the main bright spot offensively once again, finishing the game with 23 points on 9-of-17 shooting from the field, and led a unit that trimmed the lead down to four in the closing seconds.
More from Los Angeles Lakers
- NBA Trades: The Lakers bolster their frontcourt in this deal with the Pacers
- A surprise LeBron ranking should raise alarm bells for the Lakers
- Surprising Austin Reaves contract detail confirms Lakers got him for a steal
- Instant Grades for the Lakers’ unprecedented Anthony Davis extension
- Report: Lakers have big plans for recent top-10 pick amid roster shakeup
Kuzma was aggressive as soon as he stepped on the court, and continues to shoot confidently from deep, converting four of his nine 3-point attempts. He didn’t come into the league with much positivity around his jumper, but his quick release and willingness to pull up at any time makes him the ideal player for the modern NBA.
What already separates him from other 4s around the league is his ability to attack closeouts and finish creatively at the rim. Kuzma can play either forward spot, so matching up on him could present problems for opposing teams. He can bully 3s driving to the basket or simply shoot over them, while his quickness off the dribble gives him a speed advantage on most 4s.
In a league that’s downsizing, players like Kuzma can be difference-makers for teams. I understand he’s only played a handful of Vegas Summer Leagues games and a pair of preseason games, but Kuzma has clearly stood out amongst his competition.
His shots come within the flow of the offense, he’s been efficient from the field and can guard multiple positions on defense, including spending some time on Nikola Jokic. Kuzma’s skill-set is perfect for this NBA, and it will be interesting to see how many positions head coach Luke Walton plays him at simply to get him on the court.