Can Kyle Kuzma stay hot?
One of the biggest surprises for the Lakers this season has been the play of rookie forward, Kyle Kuzma. Starting in the Summer League, Kuzma really began to open some eyes with his play on the court.
Since Kuzma was drafted 27th overall, not too many could have predicted how well he would be playing this season. Coming out of Utah, Kuzma has proven that he is going to be a great scorer for years to come for the Lakers.
As a bit of a hybrid forward, Kuzma frequently has mismatches against his matchup, as he is either bigger or quicker depending on what position is guarding him. In addition to the physical traits that Kuzma possess, he is also very polished as both a scorer from inside and outside the 3-point line.
Even though Kuzma did hit a rough patch in his rookie season, he has certainly broken through the rookie wall of late. Since the All-Star break, Kuzma is averaging 16.7 points per game on 45.5 percent shooting from the field. While his field goal percentage is up slightly since the All-Star break, it has taken a sizeable jump from beyond the arc, as he is shooting 40 percent from deep.
Kuzma has had a great rookie season overall, and he has certainly been on fire of late. With the season coming to a close, it would be great for Kuzma’s confidence heading into next season if he can continue to play the way he has been.