Lakers Summer League: Kyle Kuzma looks like he’s the best draft steal

Thanks to this year’s Lakers Summer League, we’ve been able to see a lot of potential in Kyle Kuzma.

Out of all of the draft picks expected to shine in the Lakers Summer League, it wasn’t too clear what role Kyle Kuzma would have. Instead of waiting for somebody to tell him, he took over.

Owning the moment was the best decision he’s made so far. The chemistry between him and Lonzo Ball on the floor is incredible to watch, and they’re just getting started.

He’s been a solid shooter this summer as well. The rookie averages over 18 points per game on 45% shooting from the field and better than 38% from deep. At the stripe, he makes around 87% of his attempts, and he also averages a block and three assists every game.

Those kind of numbers can get him in position to be a starter. If he were to make that sort of progression, it would be bad news for Julius Randle. Whether that means less playing time for Randle or an imminent trade, the Lakers are going to go with the best players available.

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Additionally, at some point the Lakers are going to have to address chemistry. It hasn’t been an issue this summer yet it seems, but with Lonzo Ball on the floor everything changes. The hope is that they have a new leader in their new point guard, but time will tell us that answer.

Kuzma has helped things flow incredibly well on the offensively side of the floor. It’s one of the key reasons that once Lonzo Ball got comfortable after a not-so-wonderful debut, everyone else got red hot.

The Lakers are now tearing through the summer bracket. If this does keep up, it would be extremely hard to keep Kuzma off the starting lineup.

Lastly, the Lakers have to value the work ethic he brings to the table. Sure, he’s been great in the Summer League and has the potential to start in the NBA — but he didn’t get there by chance.

It seems like he’s taken getting drafted in the late first round to heart. By using that to his advantage, the motivation is easy to find.

Also, we know how easy it’d be for Julius Randle to not meet expectations. He’s yet to have a breakout season, and this could be the final opportunity for him to prove himself.

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But in a way, that is exactly what Kuzma wants to hear. It’ll only motivate him more to go above and beyond in year one.