Los Angeles Lakers: 4 young players to keep for the future
By Eric Magana
1. Kyle Kuzma, PF
Did we mention the Los Angeles Lakers have a crowded frontcourt? Yeah, it’s no joke. They actually have some nice talent up front. And the man leading the way? The steal of the draft, Kyle Kuzma. While Lonzo went No. 2 overall, it is the play of Kuzma that has Lakers fans excited, and with good reason. The guy is playing great.
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Coach Walton has to be happy knowing he’s got this kid on the bench whenever he needs a spark. At 6’9″, Kuzma can stretch the floor and drive to the basket with no fear of contact. Basically, he reminds me of the Lakers championship teams of 2009 and 2010 that featured a pretty good stretch-4. Anyone remember Lamar Odom? The difference is Kuzma can shoot the 3 better.
Again, like Clarkson, his defense isn’t great and should improve for a guy his size. But he rebounds well enough to help on that end. This guy has certainly played like a Rookie of the Year candidate. Kuzma is averaging 16.7 points per game on 50.4 percent shooting (37.9 percent from 3) and 6.1 rebounds per game. He’s vital to the Lakers depth, which they really didn’t have the last couple of seasons.
For more, take a look at his career-best performance against the Phoenix Suns on Nov. 17. Kuzma went off for 30 points and 10 rebounds. On full display was his spot on shooting, ability to fake and drive inside, absorb contact, and run the floor as teammates looked to give him the ball.
In my opinion, this is the No. 1 guy the Los Angeles Lakers must keep around for the long haul. On top of skill, he’s a humble and hard working guy who lets his game talk on the court. With a calm demeanor and a good head on his shoulders, Kuzma is bound to do some great things if he keeps acting and playing as he has so far.
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Indeed, the future is bright in L.A. While it’s still a long-term project, these 3-4 young guys should be enough to convince any free agent that the Lakers are only going to get better. Luke Walton, Rob Pelinka and Magic Johnson have a good foundation. Maybe these young guys will someday be remembered for making a big shot, or tipping in a loose ball in the final seconds of an NBA Finals game.