The Rookies Rule
While the Lakers lost and had glaring flaws in their game, there was one sign of promise – the rookies. Out of the team’s 90 points, the rooks – Lonzo Ball and Kyle Kuzma – combined for 40 of them. Additionally, both combined for 22 out of the team’s 49 rebounds.
Individually speaking, Lonzo Ball stole the show. The Lakers lost, but Lonzo definitely won. Not only did UCLA product finally scored in double-digits again, but he shot his first game above 50 percent. He also did great work defensively as he finished with career-highs in steals and blocks with three and four respectively.
The most impressive part of his game, however, was that he became the youngest player to record a triple-double in NBA history. Ball ended with 19 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists.
Kyle Kuzma, on the other hand, continued his strong play. After two games of streaky shooting, the rookie finally found his stroke as he finished the night with 21 points. Kuzma also crashed the glass as he tied with Ball to lead the team with 11 rebounds. Additionally, he shot 80 percent from the free throw line – the highest on the team.
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Let’s hope the Lakers can get at least one win on their road trip as they take on the Phoenix Suns on Monday night.