Lakers rumors: Best rookie rivalry will be Lonzo Ball vs De’Aaron Fox

Mar 24, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard De'Aaron Fox (0) looks to pass the ball against UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) in the second half during the semifinals of the South Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 24, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard De'Aaron Fox (0) looks to pass the ball against UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) in the second half during the semifinals of the South Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

The latest Lakers rumors look at the possibility of a hot new rivalry.

Die hard fans remember when there was more out there than just Lakers rumors. A time when Los Angeles was golden in the playoffs, particularly against the Sacramento Kings.

Thanks to the 2017 NBA Draft, it seems like there’s another rivalry in the making. While Kentucky star De’Aaron Fox didn’t make it to the Lakers, he’ll have plenty of motivation to go after Ball.

Like him or not, the fact is that Lonzo did struggle against Fox one on one in the Sweet 16. It’s just one game, so obviously it’s nothing to stretch, but it makes you wonder.

More from LA Sports Hub

Depending on how the others around them pan out, this could be a match up we soon see in the playoffs. Lonzo will have to lead the Lakers from the land of lottery picks. Meanwhile, Fox will have to maneuver the manure that is the Kings front office.

Both stars are in the position they’re in because their respective teams need a new leader. It’s time for things to change course, and the best time for Sacramento and Los Angeles to do that was via draft.

One of the things that could determine Ball’s rookie campaign is how he fares versus Fox. If Ball can’t handle the pressure well at the next level, drafting him will be a decision that causes the team to come under fire.

However, it is also the perfect opportunity for him to excel. Beating down one of the players that could stop him in college, Ball should have his eyes set at excelling at what he does best.

Being himself and not letting the hype or talk get to him.

Next: How Lonzo Ball Can Be Rookie Of The Year

Whichever way you want to cut it, we’re on the verge of the next great California rivalry.