– Kyle Kuzma
Arguably the most important player for the Lakers in the second part of the season is Kyle Kuzma. The Lakers have a lot invested in Kuzma, as he was the player that they kept from their talented young core. At the trade deadline a few weeks ago, Kuzma was also not dealt for a veteran that might have helped the team win now.
After a strong first two seasons with the Lakers, Kuzma has been a bit lost this season. Over the summer, Kuzma was part of Team USA, which figured to be a great opportunity for him. However, he was injured while playing for Team USA, and that injury forced him to miss training camp and the preseason for the Lakers.
With a new coach and new teammates, Kuzma missing so much time certainly did not help adjust to his new role. Consistency has been a major issue for Kuzma, and it is hopefully an issue that can be fixed.
Kuzma has the potential to be the third option for the Lakers. If he can find his grove of last year and the year before, the Lakers will be in a great position to win the title. While the first part of the season wasn’t good for Kuzma, there is still time to turn it around.