Los Angeles Lakers: Predicting starting lineup and rotation

Sixth man: Kyle Kuzma

Last year’s No. 27 overall pick, Kyle Kuzma, exceeded expectations, earning himself NBA All-Rookie First Team honors.

Kuzma averaged 16.1 points and 6.3 rebounds in 31.2 minutes per game. He shot 36.6 percent on 3-pointers and 45 percent from the field. He provided the Lakers with instant offense and looks to expand that role this year.

No. 0 started 37 games in his rookie season, but now with James in town, he’ll be the first player off the bench.

Kuzma should still see around the same amount of playing time and will likely be in the game late in fourth quarters. He’s bound to improve playing alongside LeBron and could be a dark horse candidate to win Sixth Man of the Year.

Kuz will fill in as a starter if necessary, but his role as the team’s sixth man should prove to be beneficial for this season and beyond.