Lonzo Ball had a poor debut as a Los Angeles Laker on Friday night. Ball started at the point guard position for Los Angeles in their first NBA Summer League game versus the Los Angeles Clippers. The Lakers went on to lose the game in overtime, 96-93, and Ball finished with five points, five assists, two steals, a block and four rebounds.
Ball disappoints
Lonzo Ball, 19, acknowledged his disappointing first game with the Lakers. “Tough game. We didn’t get the job done. I need to be better," he said after the game Kwese ESPN reported. Ball, the number 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft, could not find his shot.
The Las Vegas crowd, loaded with Lakers fans, encouraged Ball on every offensive possession, but Lonzo could not deliver for the majority of the game. Ball merely made 2 out of 15 shots, including 1 for 11 from three-point range. His on-ball defense was also deficient, but it is always difficult to find a rookie who can stay in front of his man at this stage.
Ingram taking charge
Brandon Ingram, 19, was the bright spot of the game for the Lakers. Ingram carried his team throughout the contest. He scored 26 points on 9 for 17 shooting and added three assists, three blocks, and two steals in 31 minutes. Ingram showed a more aggressive mentality and was able to prove that he had worked on different offensive moves during the off-season.
Ingram was kept out of the game in overtime after he had gone down to the floor on the last shot of the fourth quarter. Lakers fans held their breath for a few seconds, but Ingram was only suffering from cramp.
Patience with Ball
Lakers fans should not read too much into Ball's first game. It is important to remember that it was an NBA summer league game, and Ball had last played a full-court game in March.
Summer league games are exactly intended to help rookies rid themselves of the rust, get into game-shape, and progressively find their rhythm. Ball will eventually find his shot, which he has proven has been very effective in college despite its unorthodox nature (55.1% from the field and 41.2% from the perimeter).
Ball will be a special player.
One could easily recognize that Ball's talents are unique even after watching his ugly game. The way he moves the ball becomes infectious and improves everyone around him. He looks to make the right decision everytime he has the ball in his hands, and that is something that one cannot learn. In addition, he looks like he can grow into a smart defender thanks to his length (6 ft 6 in). He was able to disrupt the opponent's offense on several occasions during his first game. His valuable intangibles will be easier to recognize once Ball has more games under his belt. Stay calm, Lakers fans.
