Los Angeles Lakers: 4 young players to keep for the future

2. Brandon Ingram, SF

He’s only 20 years old, but Brandon Ingram is making some strides in year two of his career. He’s certainly showing more confidence, and Walton has been giving him more freedom and control within the offense.

During his rookie season, Ingram averaged 9.4 points and 4.0 rebounds per game on 40 percent shooting (29 percent from 3). This season? Those numbers are up to 14.7 points and 5.4 rebounds per game on 45 percent shooting (30 percent from 3). While his outside shooting still needs work, his overall offense is a step up. And this is a kid who I thought would never improve. How exactly has he shown his improvement? Aggression.

Yes, he is more aggressive this year on offense. He doesn’t look afraid to take a tough shot, or pass the ball to an open teammate. He looks decent on defense as well. Take a look at some of his highlights against the Chicago Bulls on Nov. 21.

Overall, he looks solid. With some added muscle, concentration, and no fear of contact, Brandon Ingram is making some nice strides as a young player. There must be a reason Magic Johnson believes in him so much. Apparently, Luke Walton does too. If he can improve his 3-point shooting and his average free throw shooting, which sits at 66 percent then watch out, because this kid has some potential to really make some noise.

If the Los Angeles Lakers somehow land LeBron or PG-13, Walton can slide Ingram to the 4 and experiment with that rotation. He is 6’9″ after all. This is a league devoid of positions now. If Giannis Antetokounmpo can play point guard, Brandon Ingram can certainly play power forward.