Lakers rumors: Should Lonzo Ball aim to be more like Russell Westbrook?

It’s time for the latest Lakers rumors to dissect how Lonzo Ball could really change them.

While the UCLA Bruins wait until Friday for Kentucky, the Sweet 16 will have a lot to tell us. It’s the time of year where top NBA prospects can showcase their talent — none more important this year that Lonzo Ball.

Serving as UCLA’s go-to point guard, Ball is a big reason for their post-season success. He was close to putting up a triple double on Cincinnati, but knows the work is far from done.

Going against Kentucky, we will see what type of player he really is.

Ball’s father, LaVar, has made a series of claims since his son took the national spotlight. Among those was a confident proclaimarion that his son is better than two-time MVP Stephen Curry.

Curry is one of the better players currently in the league, but Lonzo’s NBA match feels more like another UCLA alum.

That’s right, Russell Westbrook.

The Oklahoma City star brings a very different type of basketball, though. Where he and Ball have similarities is the fact that they’re not afraid to pass.

This comparison comes with questions, however. He’ll need to show that he can dominate top opponents in order for it to really pan out.

As for the Curry comparison, that should’ve never happened.

Playing more like Russell Westbrook than Stephen Curry would help the Lakers utilize their full talent. While still individually gifted, the young core needs a point guard that can actually share the wealth.

We’ve seen how good D’Angelo Russell can be when all he has to focus on is scoring. Giving Ball control of the offense — something he’s the best in his class at, arguably — would give the team a better chance at long term success.

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But if he doesn’t show up versus Kentucky, let that serve as a warning to Los Angeles.