Los Angeles Lakers rumors: Breaking down latest Kawhi Leonard buzz, more
Magic has big plans for Thomas Bryant
The Lakers’ 2017-18 season is nearly over. With only a handful of games left on the docket, the fun is quickly coming to an end. However, there’s one aspect of the organization that’s being overlooked — the South Bay Lakers’ ongoing playoff run, with the conference finals game on April 5.
You know who’s been killing it? Thomas Bryant, the Lakers’ second round pick this past June. While we haven’t seen as much of him in the NBA as we wanted, he’s made a monstrous impact for the franchise’s G League affiliate. In 37 regular season games, Bryant averaged 19.7 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting 59.5 percent from the field.
It may seem strange that those numbers didn’t earn him more looks with the NBA Lakers, as he’s seen only 34 minutes of court time. According to Magic, that was by design.
Magic and the Lakers are high on Thomas Bryant and his future with the team - Magic said he wanted Bryant to get a LOT of playing time but since no minutes really available w/Lakers - South Bay the answer https://t.co/vQmYlnYWNc
— Eric Pincus (@EricPincus) April 4, 2018
Honestly, it makes perfect sense. Instead of getting him mop-up minutes behind Brook Lopez, Julius Randle and Ivica Zubac, Bryant has been dominating the G League and putting valuable experience under his belt.
Don’t be surprised if that changes in 2018-19, though. Bryant has earned an opportunity to prove his worth at the next level, and he clearly has Magic on his side. Barring significant additions at center this offseason, look for the exciting young big to see more time with the Lakers next season.