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Lakers: Biggest Takeaways From the First 20 Games

By Jeremy Rucker

Nov 29, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton reacts against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first quarter of a game at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 29, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton reacts against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first quarter of a game at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
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Julius Randle Keeps Getting Better

November 18, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) moves to the basket against San Antonio Spurs guard Danny Green (14) and center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
November 18, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) moves to the basket against San Antonio Spurs guard Danny Green (14) and center Pau Gasol (16) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

One of the few bright spots from last season, Julius Randle has picked up right where he left off. Still the tenacious rebounder and aggressive finisher around the rim, the third-year forward has also emerged as a gifted passer this season.

His assists have doubled from 1.8 last season to 3.8 per game this year. The freedom he’s had to push the ball in transition has allowed his unique skill set shine. The Lakers are fifth in fast break points and Randle’s ability to facilitate on the break is a big season why.

Randle has found his groove in Walton’s free flowing system and he currently boasts the fifth-hight assist ratio of any front court player. With much improved spacing and a stronger emphasis on quick points, this offense has given the Kentucky product more opportunities than ever to utilize his vision.

He’s already collected one triple-double this season and remains a nightly threat for 10-plus points and rebounds.

Still, there are certainly areas that he can improve upon, namely his interior defense and mid range jumper. He’s been more confident letting it fly on the catch and pull up, but he still has work to do before he’ll be considered a threat.

Nonetheless, he’s been the team’s best player so far and he’ll only get better as his confidence grows. With just one full NBA season under his belt, he’s already made great strides both mentally and physically. If he can stay healthy, he’ll continue to have an impact all season long.

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