Moritz Wagner is making the most of his opportunities recently as the Los Angeles Lakers have been ravaged by injuries.
Los Angeles Lakers rookie Moritz Wagner has not had a consistent spot in the rotation throughout the season. When you sign a player of LeBron James‘ caliber, developing younger players becomes a secondary objective.
With James in the fold, the Lakers transitioned into win-now mode. Unfortunately, things have not unfolded according to plan.
We’re 66 games into the Lakers season and things are essentially over already. They have been over for seemingly a few weeks now, but the organization has waived the white flag.
James will have his minutes reduced the remainder of the season. Lonzo Ball has been shut down for the remainder of the season because of an ankle injury. Brandon Ingram was ruled out for the remainder of the season as he is dealing with a very serious ailment in Deep Venous Thrombosis, the same thing that ended Chris Bosh‘s career prematurely.
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With so many rotation players no longer in the lineup, there are a lot of minutes up for grabs. Thus far, Wagner has been one player that has taken advantage of the extra opportunities.
In the last two games, Wagner has showcased the skill set that made him a first-round pick. Wagner brings a ton of energy to the court, which was on full display against the Denver Nuggets.
In a game the Lakers were listless throughout, Wagner brought some energy and excitement when he checked in. He helped Los Angeles get back into the game, scoring 11 points with three rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block in 27 minutes.
Wagner had earned himself a bigger role going forward, and it occurred in the following game. In the next game against the Boston Celtics, Wagner was inserted into the starting lineup as Luke Walton shook things up again.
To the surprise of no one, Wagner once again brought energy and hustle to the court. Courtside microphones would constantly pick him up trash-talking opponents, as Wagner is very talkative on the court. That is a good thing, as communication has sometimes lacked for the Lakers. When Wagner is on the court, chatter is not lacking.
Against the Celtics, Wagner had the best game of his young career. Wagner scored a career-high 22 points, going 7-of-13 from the field and making all seven of his free throws. He added six rebounds, three assists and one block as well.
With that encouraging of a performance, Wagner should have a spot in the rotation for the remainder of the season. Depending on the length of time that Kyle Kuzma is sidelined, Wagner could remain in the starting lineup as well.
Wagner has some holes in his game, specifically defensively, but there is a lot to like in his game. His activity on the court is infectious and with nothing to lose this season, Wagner should be receiving minutes regularly the remainder of the season.