Los Angeles Lakers: Luke Walton proud of his young core

The Los Angeles Lakers might not have an All-Star this season, but Luke Walton is proud that his young core is in the Rising Stars game.

Even though the Los Angeles Lakers have had some struggles this season, it is clear that the future is bright in Los Angeles. After a really solid draft, the Lakers were able to select two more players that look like they will be able to have a big role on the team for years to come.

Prior to the selections of Lonzo Ball and Kyle Kuzma, the Lakers were able to draft Brandon Ingram with the second overall pick. As a player with great length, Ingram has the potential to be a unique talent in the NBA.

After a tough rookie season, Ingram has taken a huge step forward this year. Averaging over 15 points per game, Ingram has seen his shooting percentages rise across the board. For the second straight year, Ingram will be representing the Lakers in the Rising Stars Challenge. Joining him will be both of his teammates, as Ball and Kuzma each were selected as well.

Recently, Lakers head coach Luke Walton talked about his young core making the team together. Here’s what he had to say to Corey Hansford of LakersNation.com.

"“Awesome, I love it, they all deserve it,” Walton said after Thursday’s practice. “I think it shows that we’ve got a nice, bright future here in L.A. with those guys being a big part of it.”"

Seeing Ball, Kuzma and Ingram all make the team should come as no surprise. All three have played well this season and were certainly deserving of the nominations. While Ingram will be playing in the game for the second straight year, this will be the first time Ball and Kuzma participate in the All-Star Weekend festivities.

With Ball and Kuzma both having strong rookie seasons, they will likely be in the game next season as well. Kuzma is a candidate for the Rookie of the Year award, and despite injuries, Ball has been able to fill up the stat sheet in his first season.

Next: What the Lakers should do at the NBA Trade Deadline

Even though no Lakers made the actual All-Star team, seeing three members of the team in the Rising Stars Challenge is a great indication of improvement for the Lakers. In the years to come, we might see all three on the All-Star team one day.