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Los Angeles Lakers: Three realistic goals for 2018-2019

By Jason Reed

LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 05: Head coach Luke Walton talks with Brandon Ingram #14 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half of a game against the Charlotte Hornets at Staples Center on January 5, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - JANUARY 05: Head coach Luke Walton talks with Brandon Ingram #14 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half of a game against the Charlotte Hornets at Staples Center on January 5, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

1. Develop Brandon Ingram into an all-star by season’s end

LeBron James is heading to a Los Angeles Lakers team that does not have an already established superstar on the roster. And while the team may be primed to bring another superstar in next summer, the front office did still strikeout on Paul George and Kawhi Leonard this summer.

Because of the lack of a second star, many are pointing at this Lakers team as James’ biggest challenge since his first stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

And while that is true in some regards, since the Miami Heat had two other stars and then he rejoined the Cavaliers with Kyrie Irving and an added Kevin Love, this Lakers team still presents a good outlook with its youth and ability that shouldn’t make it a challenge at all.

Still, one of the young stars is going to have to emerge as LeBron’s right-hand man and will serve as the third spoke on the superstar wheel the following year. While Kyle Kuzma has been the most vocal of the young core, Brandon Ingram is the furthest along and is the most capable of turning into an all-star caliber player by season’s end.

Ingram made a huge jump in scoring and all-around production last season and is on pace to eclipse 20 points per game this season as well. He showed comfort in both on and off-ball situations and has the size and length to truly be a great small forward.

Ingram needs to work on knocking down his mid-range shots and he will be as close to a complete package as he can be. Then, it is time to hone those skills and emerge as James’ true second star as the playoffs roll around.

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