Early season awards for the Los Angeles Lakers
Rookie of the Early Season
This award seemed like a lock heading into the season in favor of the Los Angeles Lakers’ No. 2 pick Lonzo Ball. He was tabbed the new face of the franchise, is the local kid from nearby Chino Hills and was named Las Vegas Summer League MVP for the title-winning Lakers. But the Rookie of the Year may have a clear favorite this season, and it’s not Lonzo; it’s just Kyle Kuzma.
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As the 27th pick of the 2017 NBA Draft, Kuzma has been at or near the top of scoring leaders for the Lakers this season, and is the most aggressive offensive player they have; not something you’d expect from a late first round pick in his rookie season. He can score from anywhere: spot-ups, drives and finishes with either hand, pull-ups over smaller defenders — Kuzma is a mismatch in most lineups.
His quick-release, no hesitation shot from deep makes him a threat at any time, forcing defenders to honor his shot and keep them from helping on drives. This is an underrated benefit from playing a shooter like Kuzma at the 4 (he can play either forward position). The space created for teammates makes their lives easier offensively, allowing everybody to have maximum room to operate.
Lonzo’s passing and style of play has changed the outlook on the Lakers, but his shooting numbers are too low to see him pass Kuzma at this stage. Kuzma is leaned on late in games, and plays much better defense.
This rookie class should excite fans moving forward. Outside of Lonzo and Kuzma, Josh Hart is playing well as his minutes increased, and Thomas Bryant looks great in the G League. Kuzma just stands out above the rest at the moment.