Greatest Lakers of the 21st century, rank 12-10
12) Jordan Clarkson
The combo guard over-achieved beyond what would be expected from the 46th pick in the draft and turned into a very consistent scoring threat whether he started or was used as a sixth man.
In his four seasons with the Lakers, Jordan Clarkson played 273 games, averaging 14.3 points, 2.9 assists, 3.3 rebounds and 1 steal per game while shooting 44% from the field and 81% from the free-throw line.
He was also somewhat of an iron man, playing in 82 and 79 games respectively during his second and third year before being traded midway through his fourth year in a move designed to clear salary-cap space.
Clarkson ranks 25th all-time in average points per game for all Lakers (minimum 3 seasons), 11th among guards (despite averaging only 28 minutes a game) and 35th among all Lakers in total points. He is currently playing well as the sixth man for the Utah Jazz.
11) Julius Randle
He was the Lakers’ first top 10 pick in nine years when he was selected #7 in 2014. After missing his entire rookie season with a broken leg, he improved his scoring average each year. He was particularly effective in his final season with LA when he led the team in rebounding and shot 55.8% from the field.
In his four seasons spanning 238 games, Julius Randle averaged 13.5 points and 8.9 boards a game He ranks in the top 30 all-time in Lakers PPG, 13th in rebounds and 43rd in career points. Among Laker power forwards, he ranks 7th in PPG and 6th in RPG.
It was somewhat surprising that management allowed him to walk away as a free agent, receiving nothing in exchange other than salary cap room. This season, he has been one of the few bright spots for the New York Knicks.
10) Brandon Ingram
The #2 pick of 2016 developed more slowly than many Lakers fans wanted or expected, leading many to prematurely conclude that he would never live up to his draft status. But he ultimately proved that it just took him a bit longer than some to adjust to the NBA.
In three seasons with the Lakers spanning 190 games, he averaged 13.9 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.9 assists a game. His scoring average improved each year including 18.3 his final season in LA.
Brandon Ingram was traded to New Orleans in the Anthony Davis deal. AD has been terrific for LA, but Ingram has also excelled for the Pelicans, making the all-star team for the first time this season.