The Lakers were fortunate to draft Julius Randle in the lottery. One of the reasons why he slipped a bit in the draft was based on his health. While they were articles by the media saying that his lack of overall length will affect his NBA potential, there is a greater issue at hand.
Julius Randle broke his foot in high school. While he has had surgery and has stated repeatedly thoughout the draft process that it has been painless, he is taking an extra precaution.
LAKERS. Julius Randle to have 2nd opinion on high school foot Surgery. Going to Indiana for evaluation this week.KLAPPERVISION this Saturday
— Dr. Robert Klapper (@DrRobertKlapper) June 30, 2014
Foot injuries can become serious. Players such as Jason Kidd have fully recovered from a broken foot, despite being in the prime of his career in Phoenix. Even Michael Jordan broke his foot in the third game of his second season. Not only did he fully recover, but he retained all of his athletic attributes and would continue to dominate the NBA for years to come.
Fortunately, he has seen at least two doctors already and is getting another doctor to get his foot looked at.
Lakers don't expect Julius Randle to need surgery. He saw 2 doctors today & will see another 1 on Tues. in Indiana http://t.co/5ysAoeNJob
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) June 30, 2014
Injuries affected the Laker team greatly last season. While the team lacked a sense of chemistry and could not build continuity on the court, it gave the Lakers a chance for a lottery pick.
Hi, Julius Randle. We’re glad you’re a Laker. We just want you to play healthy.
"What's up #LakerNation , it's Julius Randle I couldn't be more excited to be here" https://t.co/GtZwl5VTRB
— Laker Nation (@LakerNation) June 30, 2014
The Lakers can’t build a solid foundation when a key player can’t stand on his own two feet. The Lakers need Randle to stand on his own two feet.