Take the role of number three
For the most part this season it’s been a mixture of inconsistency and injuries that have plagued Kyle Kuzma. Not a good sign for a team that made him off-limits in the Anthony Davis trade, as they instead shipped off Brandon Ingram. Ingram has thrived in his short time in New Orleans.
Kuzma was destined to be that third star next to LeBron and AD. He has yet to seize that role and his latest injury has kept him sidelined. He’s missed nine games this year due to different injuries and has struggled to find his shot when on the floor.
His 43.3% FG% is the lowest of his three-year career and his FT% is down under 70% now. He has been very inconstant and a disappointment in what was supposed to be a breakout year for him. The team showed a lot of trust in him and he still has plenty of time to show them they made the right decision.
First, he needs to get back on the court healthy and start playing again. He is equipped with a ton of talent and has shown he belongs in this league. He can score in a variety of ways and worked tirelessly this summer to improve his game.
The Lakers need a third star and the most logical answer is Kuzma. Once he gets back from injury he needs to show his potential and continue growing his game. That will be better then any trade the Lakers could make to upgrade their roster.