Los Angeles Lakers: 3 Players who need to step up with Brook Lopez out

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 18: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors drives on Brook Lopez #11 of the Los Angeles Lakers in the first quarter at Staples Center on December 18, 2017 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. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

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LOS ANGELES, CA – DECEMBER 18: Julius Randle (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images) /

– Julius Randle

One of the players that will certainly see more playing time with Lopez out is Julius Randle. So far this season, Randle has been coming off the bench for the Lakers. Despite not being thrilled with that move, he has embraced it and played well.

This season, Randle is averaging 12.5 points and 6.4 rebounds in 22.9 minutes per game. There is no denying that Randle has been excellent off the bench for the Lakers this season, as he along with Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Clarkson are one of the best bench units in the league.

Usually, Randle comes in right away to play center for Lopez off the bench. However, his role could change depending on the lineups now. If Bogut does start games, Walton’s rotations would likely be fairly similar. Since Lopez wasn’t playing a ton of minutes, there are only about 20 minutes that will need to be filled.

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Since Randle is a better offensive player than Nance, he will likely be the one to see the boost in playing time. With Lopez out, Randle is certainly the most-deserving to see his minutes increase. A lot will certainly depend on matchups, but Walton has felt comfortable with Randle at center against the likes of Joel Embiid to close games. With Lopez out, the Lakers will need all they can get from Randle.

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