So far, Los Angeles Lakers rookie Lonzo Ball has been impressive since being drafted. Even though he has started strong, he isn’t slowing down.
After a few years of struggles, the Los Angeles Lakers are looking to change the culture. With hiring of Luke Walton, Rob Pelinka, and Magic Johnson, things are starting to look up in Los Angeles.
This offseason, we began to see what the Lakers’ plan is for the future. As of the now, the Lakers are focused on building their young core and then going after big-name free agents next offseason. However, they did appear to strike gold in the NBA Draft this year, as they were able to select Lonzo Ball with the second overall pick.
Coming out of UCLA, Ball was taken right after Markelle Fultz went to the Philadelphia 76ers. In college, Ball was one of the best players in the country, and he put his talents on display in the Las Vegas Summer League.
Even though some still might believe that the Summer League is somewhat pointless, there is no denying the growth of it the last few years. This year, the Lakers were able to fill up the arena in Las Vegas, as all eyes were on Ball.
Even with the pressure on, Ball didn’t disappoint. He was able to have a great Summer League, as he totaled two triple-doubles in the tournament, and was named Summer League MVP. Ball was unable to play in the Championship Game, but his teammates picked him up and won the Lakers the title.
After few weeks have passed since then, and Ball is still working extremely hard to get ready for the season.
Lonzo Ball has impressed teammates with his work ethic, commitment and humility. One player told me: “You just like being around him.”
— Chris Palmer (@ChrisPalmerNBA) August 4, 2017
Even though the Lakers likely won’t be a playoff team this season in a loaded Western Conference, they are surely poised to be better this season. With a lot of young players, there are surely going to be some rough points next season. However, Ball’s hard work ethic already has him being praised by his teammates.
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One of the reasons why the Lakers liked Ball so much was his ability to be a leader on the floor. So far, it appears like he is putting in the work to be a leader this offseason too.