Lakers Offseason: Breaking Down Julius Randle’s Offensive Strengths

Apr 13, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) looks to drive against Utah Jazz forward Trey Lyles (41) in the first quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 13, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) looks to drive against Utah Jazz forward Trey Lyles (41) in the first quarter at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
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April 6, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) controls the ball against Los Angeles Clippers guard J.J. Redick (4) and center DeAndre Jordan (6) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
April 6, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) controls the ball against Los Angeles Clippers guard J.J. Redick (4) and center DeAndre Jordan (6) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

Ability to Create For Others

Though his jumper is nowhere near where it needs to be, the development of Julius Randle’s vision is arguably just as important as the development of his jumper. In order to actualize the Draymond Green comparisons, Randle’s vision and passing ability need to improve.

Thankfully, he started to display better passing instincts as the season progressed, notably having his first triple-double in the NBA toward the latter stages of the season.

In the play below, Randle shows patience and is able to locate his trailer in the fast break. Whereas earlier in the season Julius struggled to find others when they were open, he showed signs of development on that end as the season progressed.

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If his late-season improvement in passing is any indication, Randle’s playmaking abilities will become a huge part of his game moving forward.

Overall, Julius Randle appears to be a promising member of the Lakers’ young core for years to come. While he certainly had his struggles on the court, his continued improvement and his diverse skill set should earn him a spot on the Lakers’ starting line-up for the foreseeable future.

Whether or not he becomes the leader of the young squad, still remains to be seen, but of the three young stars he seems to have the personality most suited for assuming said role.

Next: Lakers Workout Jaylen Brown and Skal Labissiere

Stay tuned for even more breakdowns of the other young Lakers players in the near future.

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