Los Angeles Lakers: Biggest strengths and weaknesses for 2017-18

Strength No. 3: Upside on the wing

The Los Angeles Lakers had a heck of a time finding their offense in 2016-17. They ranked 17th in the NBA in points per game (104.6) but their offensive rating ranked 23rd (106.0) among NBA teams.

It helps they found a gem on the wing with the addition of rookie forward Kyle Kuzma. Kuzma is averaging 19.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 27.3 minutes per game through four preseason games for the Lakers.

Kuzma has proven to be a steal for Los Angeles in the second round of this year’s NBA Draft, as he’s currently shooting 30 percent from 3-point range and 62 percent from the floor.

As second-year forward Brandon Ingram struggles through preseason, Kuzma continues to shine despite Los Angeles’ 1-3 record. Ingram is averaging 8.0 points and 4.3 rebounds per game while shooting 27.6 percent from the floor.

Luckily, the team still has veteran Corey Brewer on the roster if things go sour for Kuzma or Ingram. For now, Kuzma is showing why he was a good selection in the draft.