Recently, Los Angeles Lakers point guard Lonzo Ball praised Brook Lopez as being one of the top centers in the NBA.
The Los Angeles Lakers haven’t been able to find the same success in the preseason as they did in the Las Vegas Summer League. Through three games, the Lakers have a 0-3 record and the defense continues to be an issue.
While the Lakers have yet to win a preseason game, they have also been without their starting center, Brook Lopez. As the big prize in the D’Angelo Russell trade, Lopez will surely help the Lakers when he is able to play.
Even though the Nets struggled the past few seasons, Lopez played very well for them and is an All-Star caliber player.
Recently, Lonzo Ball praised Lopez as being one of the best big men in the NBA.
Lonzo Ball on Brook Lopez's return: "He’s one of the best big men in the league…I’m excited to see what he's going to do out there."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) October 6, 2017
It is hard to argue with Ball’s statement about Lopez. Last season, Lopez was able to average 20.5 points per game, as he is one of the best offensive centers in the NBA. With a good low-post and mid-range game, Lopez has also now added the three-point shot to his arsenal. As the game continues to move toward the 3-point line, having a center that can shoot 3-pointers will be a valuable weapon.
While Lopez has never been a great rebounder, he is a good rim protector. Last season, Lopez averaged 1.7 blocks per game, as he should help the Lakers out defensively with his ability to protect the basket.
We have yet to see Ball and Lopez on the court together because of Lopez’s lingering back issue. However, a good point guard/center combo can be an unstoppable force. Both players should be able to help each look better, and the veteran Lopez will certainly help the development of Ball.
Next: Ranking the 50 greatest Lakers of all-time
The Lakers’ next preseason game will be against the Sacramento Kings on Sunday. This could be the first time that we see Ball and Lopez on the court together.