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Five things we have learned about the Lakers after one month

By Jason Reed

PHOENIX, AZ - NOVEMBER 13: Head coach Luke Walton of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on November 13, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Lakers defeated the Suns 100-93. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ - NOVEMBER 13: Head coach Luke Walton of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on November 13, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Lakers defeated the Suns 100-93. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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PHOENIX, AZ – NOVEMBER 13: Kyle Kuzma (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ – NOVEMBER 13: Kyle Kuzma (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

2. Kyle Kuzma is legit

Keeping on the topic of power forwards, easily the biggest surprise for the Lakers this season has been the play of rookie power forward Kyle Kuzma. Kuzma was drafted 27th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft and in fact, was included in the deal that shipped off Russell. Now, with one month under his belt, we can surely say that Kuzma is legit.

Kuzma played extremely well in the NBA Summer League, leading the Lakers to the Summer League title. Then, the strong play continued to the preseason. However, the cloud still hung above Kuzma’s head that he was not doing it against viable NBA defenses.

Kuzma continued to prove all the doubters wrong when the regular season hit. Playing off the bench behind Brandon Ingram, Kuzma scored 15 or more points in five of his first seven contests. Since being promoted to the starting unit, Kuzma has scored in the double digits every single game and has dropped 20 or more points five times.

This included his first 30-point game against the Phoenix Suns. Overall, Kuzma’s 50.0% field goal rate and 31.3% shooting from beyond the arc is promising in his stretch four role. For the entire season, Kuzma is averaging 16.4 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. He is legit.

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