What Fans Have Learned From the Lakers Preseason
By Hannah Kulik
Oct 13, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; General view of the NBA preseason game between the Sacramento Kings and Los Angeles Lakers at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
9. Fans need to be realistic about Russell and forget about where he was taken in the draft, because he is not going to be an instant NBA star. He was chosen to be a point guard but he has looked overwhelmed much of the time. Russell is 19 years old, physically as well as mentally, and he needs time to mature and get stronger. He is going to play a lot simply by virtue being the number two draft pick, but he is going to struggle when the season starts like most rookies.
10. Finally, this is likely to be a trying season. The veterans are either too old or too average to lead the team to the playoffs, and the young players will be up and down. The team’s future depends on Clarkson, Randle and Russell. The first two will have very strong games here and there but may struggle to remain consistent.
It will be interesting to see if Nance Jr, Brown, and Black can develop into solid NBA supporting cast members, but that will take playing time which Scott may or may not give them. In the end, unless injuries become a factor, the team should be entertaining and it should be especially fun watching the younger players mature.
Next: Will the Lakers Trade Nick Young This Season?
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