New Los Angeles Lakers point guard Lonzo Ball looks forward to sharing the same side of the court with heavily promising Brandon Ingram as he believes that he could have a positive impact on Ingram's game.
The Lakers used their second overall pick in this year's NBA draft to select former UCLA Bruin and one of the most intriguing guards in recent years -- 19-year-old Ball. The 6ft 6in guard, often compared to former NBA champion Jason Kidd due to his passing skill set, is also extremely fast as well as explosive and dynamic. Ball's reputation includes him being a player who can make the others better as he loves and is capable of putting his teammates in a good position to score the basketball.
Ingram, a member of the team's young core and the second overall pick of the 2015 draft, didn't disappoint the organization during his rookie season. Though listed as small forward, the 20-year-old can play multiple positions due to his ability to run down the floor, knock down shots and good ball handling, all while having his height measured at 6ft 9in.
The Lakers hope that they have the new Kevin Durant in Ingram, the player to which Ingram has been drawing comparisons since his arrival in the league. Though it's extremely tough to become as good as a player as Golden State Warriors superstar, Durant is, Duke product Ingram undoubtedly has a high ceiling.
''Definitely Brandon Ingram. That was just his first year, and he did a lot.
I feel like he is going to be a superstar in this league,'' Ball said, in a phone interview given to the Los Angeles Times Sport, when asked if there is anyone on the team's roster he can take to another level.
Something special
The Los Angeles Lakers could have two future superstars and leaders of the franchise in the names of Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram.
The Lakers, a 16-time NBA champions but yet to win a championship since 2010, are desperate to get back to their winning days and old fame. The franchise hasn't featured the postseason since 2013 while having one of the worst records in recent years, which game them a chance to choose at number two in back-to-back years.
Should much promising Ball and Ingram, the results of those not so memorable two seasons, become a dominant force in the NBA, it would help the Lakers forget one of the darkest periods of the team's history.
A brief intro
The fans of the Los Angeles Lakers won't have to wait for too long to see Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram together in action as the two are set to represent the team in this year's NBA Summer League. Ball is set to make his Summer League debut along with more Lakers draftees while Ingram has a one year of experience, having participated in the league last year.
The Lakers will open up their Summer League campaign on July 7, Friday, against their city rivals -- the Los Angeles Clippers. The team will be then meeting the Boston Celtics the day after and the Sacramento Kings on July 10.
Though what Ball and Ingram showcase together this upcoming July can't be taken for granted, it will provide a glimpse of how it all looks when they're together on the floor.