Los Angeles Lakers vs Boston Celtics: 5 players to watch for

BOSTON, MA - NOVEMBER 8: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers and Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics stand on the court during the game on November 8, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - NOVEMBER 8: Lonzo Ball #2 of the Los Angeles Lakers and Kyrie Irving #11 of the Boston Celtics stand on the court during the game on November 8, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Los Angeles Lakers vs Boston Celtics: 5 players to watch for
BOSTON, MA – NOVEMBER 8: Brandon Ingram #14 of the Los Angeles Lakers goes up for the layup during the game against the Boston Celtics on November 8, 2017 at the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. 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 Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Brandon Ingram

Brandon Ingram is enjoying a strong sophomore season. He is taking steps forward in his development, which is what the Lakers wanted to see after a difficult rookie season. This season, Ingram is looking more and more like the Lakers go-to player.

Ingram is averaging 15.7 points per game, a significant jump from the 9.4 as a rookie. His efficiency has improved across the board, as Ingram is more confident attacking the rim and finishing through contact.

In the first meeting against the Celtics, Ingram had a good game. He shot 7-of-11, pouring in 18 points. He also added seven rebounds, one assist and two steals. However, Ingram has been battling injuries lately, which makes him a player to watch.

Ingram has alternated sitting out and playing over the past five games. He played against the Knicks, as he was on the court for only 24 minutes. He is dealing with a nagging ankle injury that was suffered against the Dallas Mavericks 10 days ago. That was the same game that Lonzo Ball was injured in as well.

At not 100 percent, what will we see from Ingram? The Celtics are a strong defensive team and will make Ingram work for his points. Will he be able to perform at the same level despite the nagging ankle injury?