Lakers News: Brandon Ingram expected to lead team in scoring

The latest Lakers news looks at how Brandon Ingram can really make a difference.

Lonzo Ball and the rest of the incoming rookies have headlined Lakers news for the majority of the summer. Second year star Brandon Ingram is part of that talented young core, and Magic Johnson does not have low expectations.

After dealing D’Angelo Russell, the Lakers made it clear that if you didn’t produce or fit into the system and culture they were trying to rebuild, then you’re as good as gone. Through all of that, Johnson kept Ingram from being part of any trade discussions.

This was not only true with the Paul George trade scenarios, but with anybody this off-season. Describing Ingram as an untouchable player at one point, Johnson put his trust where his mouth is.

Now let’s see if it’s a move that will pay off.

According to a report from Lakers Nation, Magic Johnson sees Ingram taking the reigns in both scoring and in leadership roles. With Lonzo Ball running the offense, Ingram getting good shots is likely to become a whole lot easier.

More from LA Sports Hub

What it really depends on though, is chemistry. Ingram is still very much the talented player Los Angeles needs him to be. With a bit more work in the weight room, Ingram can be one of the best forwards in today’s game.

However, without the right flow on offense. everything that had good intentions gets disrupted. That’s another plausible reason that Magic Johnson had no problem pulling the plug on D’Angelo Russell.

Los Angeles managed to deal two of their best scorers, with Russell sent to Broolyn and Lou Williams packaged to Houston earlier in the year. This does give Ingram the opportunity to step up, but whether or not he’s ready to fill that void is a chance the organization seems willing to take.

Also, if the first assist of Lonzo Ball’s career was any indication at Summer League, the rookie will be able to feed Ingram like nobody’s business. Time will also tell us if this year’s Lakers squad has what it takes to sneak into the Western Conference playoff picture.

If Ingram steps up, the chances of that go way up. Without him being an effective, consistent presence, however, you can kiss that good bye.

The postseason isn’t the only measuring tool we should use, though. Growth as a team and progress from the year prior in terms of chemistry and the win column matter most.

Next: LBJ To LA Might Be Inevitable Now

Should Ingram lead the team in scoring, he’ll make up for a mostly lackluster rookie campaign.

Home/Los Angeles Lakers