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Los Angeles Lakers: Three things we have learned from Summer League

By Jason Reed

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 15: LeBron James (R) of the Los Angeles Lakers hugs Josh Hart #5 of the Lakers after he played in a quarterfinal game of the 2018 NBA Summer League against the Detroit Pistons at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 15, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Lakers defeated the Pistons 101-78. 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 Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 15: LeBron James (R) of the Los Angeles Lakers hugs Josh Hart #5 of the Lakers after he played in a quarterfinal game of the 2018 NBA Summer League against the Detroit Pistons at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 15, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Lakers defeated the Pistons 101-78. 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 Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

1. Josh Hart is going to be a difference maker next season

Josh Hart certainly is talented, there is no question about that. Before last season began, I wrote about how Hart would be the X-factor for the Lakers and turn out to be the best sleeper pick in the entire draft.

While Hart was good during a stretch of time, those honors went to Kyle Kuzma and Donovan Mitchell of the Utah Jazz. In fact, Hart’s overall numbers last season were not that impressive. Those not following the Lakers probably wouldn’t regard Hart as anything more than a depth option.

Last year, Hart averaged 7.9 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. Decent numbers, but nothing to write home about.

It was when Hart stepped up in Lonzo Ball’s absence when it value first started to show. After the All-Star Break, Hart averaged 15.3 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.0 assists. But still, that was Hart performing on an injury-ridden Lakers’ team; who knows if that would be sustainable.

The second-year combo guard has played very well in the Summer League, showing that a good level of production is indeed sustainable. Hart has averaged 21.6 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game and has looked far more advanced than his peers.

Hart has only solidified his place as a difference maker as a combo guard off the bench for the Lakers. Next season, Hart should be the seventh man behind Kyle Kuzma and act as the back up shooting guard alongside Rajon Rondo at the point.

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