2. Lonzo Ball
Lonzo Ball is still one of the most polarizing players in the NBA (mostly because of his father), but his play on the court is beginning to improve in a big way. He has finally found his stroke from beyond the arc, has maintained his defensive ability, and is also passing at even greater levels. He fits in well with a team that has Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
Ball is playing over 32 minutes a night and is putting up 12.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game. He has upped his three-point percentage from 32.9 percent to 38.3 percent since last year. He is also averaging 1.9 stocks per game which adds to the backcourt defense in New Orleans that already includes Jrue Holiday.
Lonzo is still getting better and is just 22 years old. He has such an innate feel for the game that it hints at stardom in his future. His time in Los Angeles might have been….interesting, but he’s still a very talented young player and is showing the league that he is more than just a Ball family member and a media circus.
1. Brandon Ingram
Brandon Ingram always had it in him to be excellent, but his time in New Orleans has allowed him to put it on full display. Ingram is a bonafide star now. Ingram is averaging 24.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game on the offensive side of the ball and 1.7 stocks on defense. His mid-range game is money and his three-point shot has improved to a 38.7 percent clip.
Ingram is still just 22 years of age and is in fourth NBA campaign. The upside is tremendous and the Lakers saw it in him when they selected him second overall in the NBA Draft.
He now plays for the New Orleans Pelicans and the Lakers will have to watch his ascent to stardom there, but they have Anthony Davis. It might sting just how good Ingram is becoming, but the Los Angeles Lakers internally know that they acquired one of the best big men of all time.