Lakers: Five positive things to take from the 2017-2018 season

1. Even amidst shooting struggles, Lonzo Ball’s impact is evident

Lonzo Ball did not get off to a hot start in his rookie season. After months of trash talk from his father, LaVar Ball, Lonzo had a massive target on his back. If Lonzo Ball did anything less than excel at the NBA level then all of his biggest critics would be at his throat. Despite being a quiet, humble player, Lonzo Ball was portrayed as this brash superstar because of his father.

Ball has the exact start that his critics wanted him to have. He started the season off against rough defender Patrick Beverley. Beverley smothered Ball, allowing him to score just three points with nine rebounds and four assists.

The shooting struggles continued. Ball’s unorthodox shot mechanics were criticized (including by me) in about every sports news medium. Despite dropping two triple-doubles this season, the first making him the youngest player ever with a triple-double, the critics did not stop.

However, even with a shot that needs some ironing out Ball was able to average over 10 points this season with just about seven rebounds and seven assists per game. Not only is he a stat stuffer, Ball has had an evident impact on the culture of the Lakers.

The offense runs through Lonzo Ball; the team is noticeably better offensively with him on the court. He makes everyone better. That is exactly what you want your young point guard to do.