Lakers: Where do Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma rank among the top 10 rookies?
By Jason Reed
Lonzo Ball and Kyle Kuzma have been a huge reason why the Los Angeles Lakers are succeeding this season. Compared to their peers, how good have Ball and Kuzma been?
The Los Angeles Lakers may not be back to the title-contending status that fans have grown so used to. LA still probably will end up missing the playoffs with the myriad of contending teams; marking the fifth consecutive season without playoff basketball. For some fans, that is an unsuccessful season.
However, this season has been a huge success and is a huge stepping stone towards success in the future.
Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka have done wonderfully in their first season running the team. Before the year, D’Angelo Russell, Nick Young, Tarik Black and David Nwaba all departed LA. In came Brook Lopez, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and most importantly, the rookies; Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma and Josh Hart.
That trio has been great for the Lakers this season, Ball and Kuzma leading the way of the three. Julius Randle has enjoyed success at an increased role at center. Brandon Ingram is blossoming into something special. Even without Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance Jr, the Lakers have made it work with Isaiah Thomas.
Los Angeles has already surpassed the team’s win total from last season (26). With a 29-35 record, the Lakers look ready to surpass the 33-win prediction ESPN placed on them prior to the year.
Lonzo Ball and Kyle Kuzma have been two of the most important pieces in this quick turnaround. With the season entering its final stages, where do Ball and Kuzma rank among fellow rookies?