Los Angeles Lakers: Players primed to exceed expectations in 2018-19

3. Rajon Rondo

As Lakers fans, it’s almost natural to hate Rajon Rondo and feel that him playing in purple and gold is blasphemous. As a result, expectations for the wily veteran point guard have been surprisingly low since his signing back in July.

However, as we’re quickly learning during the preseason, the 32-year-old facilitator still has a trick or two up his sleeve. He’s incorporated some of his usual wizardry into his first few appearances for the Lakers, giving the starting lineup a proven playmaker who knows how to set his teammates up for success.

Now don’t get me wrong — Lonzo Ball absolutely still has a role to play. And yet, as he continues to rehab from offseason knee surgery, it’s anyone’s guess when he’ll be ready to return to the court. Until that happens, the Lakers need someone who can run the show.

It just so happens that Rondo is more than capable of filling that role. Heck, Lakers fans should feel right at home with some of his Ball-esque passing (or is it the other way around?):

It’s easy to be skeptical of Rondo, especially after some of his recent struggles. However, at his core, he’s still a smart, productive passer, opportunistic defender and guy who loves to get in opponents’ heads.

There will undoubtedly be some bumpy parts of the season for Rondo. Overall though, the outlook appears bright for the Lakers’ underrated veteran point guard.