Los Angeles Lakers: 10 best power forwards in team history

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Los Angeles Lakers must re-sign restricted free agent /

No. 10: Julius Randle

Many readers will be surprised at the inclusion of Randle on this list. Some will be openly critical.
But consider the facts. In his four seasons with the Lakers (really only three because he missed virtually his entire rookie year due to injury), Julius ranks 7th in points per game (13.5) and 6th in rebounds per game (8.9) among all Laker power forwards.

Randle’s 2017-18 season rates among the best of any Laker at this position. Yes, he played many minutes as a small ball center. But it’s not at all unusual for PF’s to log court time as the 5. Many have done so extensively.

Furthermore, Randle’s 55.8 percent shooting this past season is among the leaders at power forward. Also, his 2.6 assists per game is high for a player at his position. The truth is that if the Lakers re-sign him, and he maintains or improves his averages over more seasons, he will rank even higher.

That is why, despite the fascination shared by some fans, media members, and perhaps the front office with signing big-name stars, re-signing Randle would be a prudent move for the team to make.

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