Los Angeles Lakers: Predicting the team’s 2018-19 starting lineup

Point Guard: Lonzo Ball

Is there really any other option at point guard? Since the day he was drafted back in June, Lonzo Ball has been the starting point guard for the Lakers. More than likely, that’ll be the case until the day he retires or leaves the franchise in some way.

Up to this point, Ball hasn’t quite met the expectations of fans during his rookie season. Especially through the first quarter of the campaign, he struggled with shooting/scoring, and wasn’t the offensive sparkplug we saw during Summer League and the preseason. However, in recent weeks, we’ve seen his star shine noticeably brighter.

Ball is beginning to play with more confidence. He isn’t as conservative on offense, and is seeking out more opportunities to put the ball in the basket. On top of that, his shooting has seen a significant uptick in effectiveness, especially from 3-point range.

Is Ball already a superstar? Not necessarily. The talent and potential are certainly there, though, especially when we look at what he can do as a facilitator and opportunistic defender.

If all goes as planned, the Lakers’ No. 2 overall pick in 2017 will pan out as well as expected. Ball will develop into one of the better point guards in the league, using his keen basketball IQ, passing skills and leadership to usher this franchise into a new era of prosperity.