Los Angeles Lakers: 5 takeaways from opening night loss to Clippers

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LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 19: Brandon Ingram #14 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball against the LA Clippers on October 19, 2017 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Youngsters Have Rough Night

The Lakers youngsters experienced a lot of positives this summer. They were champions of the Las Vegas Summer League and had some big performances in the preseason. However, things came crashing back down to earth quickly in the first game that counts for real.

Lonzo Ball had a difficult matchup against Patrick Beverley. Ball tried to not let the aggressive and talkative Beverley in his head, but Beverley is not an easy player to go up against, especially in a debut. Ball’s shot was off once again, as he made 1-of-6 from the field, going 1-of-3 from deep and missing both free throws. He did add nine rebounds and four assists with one steal and one block for an okay debut.

Brandon Ingram struggled mightily with his shot again, making only 3-of-15 from the field. He did save his stat line with five rebounds and four assists. Kyle Kuzma, who was on fire all summer and preseason, scored eight points. He registered a poor -17 on the night.

Things will get better for the young players on the team, but this was a difficult opening night. Fans will get anxious, but bright days will be ahead for the young core of the Lakers.

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