Los Angeles Lakers: Each new acquisition’s unique role next season
By Jason Reed
Rajon Rondo: Challenge and mentor Lonzo Ball
Not a lot of NBA analysts like the signing of Rajon Rondo due to the idea that LeBron James needs to surround himself with shooters to succeed. With Lonzo Ball not being a great shooter himself, the Lakers are not exactly proficient at shooting the basketball at the point guard position.
However, Rondo is a great signing for the long-term effects he will have on the Lakes despite likely only playing one season in LA.
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Prior to being drafted, many compared Ball to that of Jason Kidd. A great rebounder for his position that could distribute the basketball and, at his best, scoring just under 20 points per game. While scoring 10 points per game was impressive for his rookie season, Ball has looked much more like Rondo thus far.
Ball is a sneaky good defender, rebounder and facilitator. He has struggled at shooting the basketball but has been able to get to the rim as well as score on the fast break. He has great basketball IQ and as he adds strength will only become more dangerous in the league.
Rondo is going to come in and not only mentor Lonzo Ball in what to do and not do in the league but is going to legitimately challenge him. Last season, Ball was given the reigns of the offense with no real hesitation, he was the new face of the Lakers.
This year, that is all going to change as head coach Luke Walton has left the starting job up for grabs. Having this kind of internal competition will be great for Ball as he develops into an NBA star.