Lakers rumors: How would LA look if they draft Lonzo Ball?

February 18, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) controls the ball against the defense of Southern California Trojans guard Jonah Mathews (2) during the first half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
February 18, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) controls the ball against the defense of Southern California Trojans guard Jonah Mathews (2) during the first half at Pauley Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
7 of 7
Next
Jan 26, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton directs his team in the fourth quarter against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena. The Utah Jazz won 96-88. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton directs his team in the fourth quarter against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena. The Utah Jazz won 96-88. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports /

Closing Thoughts

As the Lakers charge more towards their youth movement, keeping their coaching staff strong is the last line of defense. Careless coaching can cost the team years of development and talent that they may never get back.

When it comes to how many players the Lakers have on their roster that are still very new to the NBA, that comes up at the top talking point. Luke Walton can be trusted for now, but going too easy or too hard on the team next season will determine his long term fit.

As for franchise decisions, it looks more likely that Magic Johnson will be having the ultimate say on major decisions from the team. He has a great case to present to the team’s leadership in terms of his resume, but if given a job like general manager, he’ll have to prove it with more than just words.

Next: Five Players That Lakers Should Trade For

In closing, the Lakers are on their way back to being great. That process often doesn’t come quickly, but being on the right road makes all the difference.