4: Kyle Kuzma
Kuzma is already a standout player for the Lakers. This past season he put up 18.7 points per game, and he upped that to 19.8 points a game from December 2 onward. He improved his 2-point shooting percentage from 51.1 percent in his rookie season to 55.3 percent, and he also increased his assists output from 1.8 to 2.5 per game.
However, 3-point shooting was the bone of contention for Kuzma in 2018-19. His rookie season he shot a solid 36.6 percent from downtown, but it went down to a very poor 30.3 percent this past season.
With Davis on board, Kuzma should expect to get plenty of open looks from long range, partly because opposing teams will help off him and make him hit some “prove it to me” shots from beyond the arc.
Earlier this summer, video was leaked of Kuzma tweaking his shot form and apparently changing the release point of his jumper.
The biggest difference that I noticed in the video of Kuz's jumper that @LethalShooter__ posted is a much higher set point. It used to be right in front of his forehead. Here's a side-by-side comparison. pic.twitter.com/26MCmQpWdb
— Laker Film Room (@LakerFilmRoom) July 15, 2019
If Kuzma ends up hitting at least 37 percent of his 3-pointers next season, it could be the difference between him being just another good player and possibly becoming an All-Star.
For his part, Kuzma has said that he believes he can become that third star alongside James and Davis. Big Threes in the NBA may have gone out of style once Kevin Durant ruptured his Achilles and subsequently relocated to the New York City area, but having one would increase the Lakers’ championship chances significantly versus merely having a dynamic duo.
By improving his 3-point shooting, as well as his defense, Kuzma can not only make his first All-Star team, but also put himself front-and-center for the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year award, assuming he comes off the bench.
Here’s hoping that Kuzmania is just getting started in Southern California.