Lakers Preseason: What We Know Now

The Randle Factor

Oct 11, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) passes the ball away from Maccabi Haifa Dijon Thompson (25) and forward Rene Rougeau (15) during a preseason exhibition basketball game at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

What else can we say about Julius Randle?

After only having played 14 minutes and scoring two points in his NBA debut in the 2014-15 season, Randle was lost to injury for the remainder of the season.

However, it looks like the injury was a blessing in disguise.

Randle has absolutely been tearing it up in preseason, averaging 12.8 points, six rebounds, and three assists per game.

Randle’s game is most effective inside, as he demonstrated his back-to-the-basket skills as well as showing a little bit of range.

He still needs to work on his jumper but once he does, Randle will become an unpredictable player who can play inside and outside.

Kobe Bryant had an interesting player comparison in regards to Randle, per Lakers Reporter Mike Trudell:

Now if that is not high praise from the five-time NBA champion, I don’t know what is.

Randle has shown he can push the ball up after a rebound, and even brought back show time with a behind-the-back move and dish to Bryant for a three.

If Randle continues to play the way he has during the regular season, the sky is the limit!

Next: No. 2