Lakers rumors: Who’s the best member of young core?
By Keith Rivas
Julius Randle
Taking into account that his first season came to a screeching halt because of a devastating injury, the rise of Julius Randle is adding up nicely.
The former Kentucky star has been irreplaceable on the boards for the young team.
Finding their fight is the second step for the young core after their chemistry concerns are addressed. Thus far, no major reason to worry about their chemistry or communication, at least compared to last year.
Additionally, Randle leads the team in rebounds, with 8.3 off the glass per game.
Julius Randle cleared to resume basketball activities, but will not play vs Denver.
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) January 31, 2017
Injury hasn’t been an issue of his this season as much as illness has, which is how he’s currently missing minutes.
The power and double double machine is a force to be reckoned with.
Where Randle could improve, though, is his blocking ability. For such a key rebound-oriented player, he lacks the blocking stats that you might assume go hand in hand with his size and style of play.
In contrast, he averages less than one block per game. That needs to be addressed immediately for his part in the young core to take full effect.