Lonzo Ball bounced back from his disappointing first game as a Los Angeles Laker where he only had five points. Ball landed a triple-double of 11 points, 11 assists, and 11 rebounds in his second NBA summer league. Ball played at a higher pace and let the game come to him. He was also more selective at shooting the ball on Saturday. However, Ball was not able to impede the Lakers' second consecutive loss in the NBA summer league, this time at the hands of the Boston Celtics (86-81).
Lakers lose again
With no Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball took charge of the Lakers' offense a bit more in this second game.
Kyle Kuzma, the Lakers' 27th pick, was the team's go-to scorer. The forward scored 31 impressive points, and many of these points came from an assist by Ball. When asked about Ball's vision after the game, Kuzma said, "Having him pass like that is contagious." Kuzma also showed glimpses of his defensive potential when guarding number 3 pick Jayson Tatum.
Tatum, the Celtics' number 3 pick in this year's draft, showed once again that he is wise beyond his years. Tatum showcased his offensive repertoire all game long and led his team to victory thanks to his 27 points and 11 rebounds.
Ball shows his potential
Ball demonstrated that his first game was simply a bad game. Although his shot was not totally there again in this second game, his energy, passing, and leadership on the court seemed to be on point.
He will only get better with time. Ball has a history of making his teammates better, so it will be crucial to get as much playing time together with his new teammates in order to learn how to play together.
Ball discussed his performance after the second NBA summer league game. “I definitely felt better, better game. But we didn’t get the win so that’s all I really care about."
Ball also acknowledged that he has room to improve.
“The biggest challenge is my shot, my shot’s not going in,” he said. “My shot is off. Everybody knows I’m going to keep shooting. My confidence is there I’ve just got to hit them.
Ball's learning curve
Lakers fans will have to be patient with Ball and not pressure him too much at this stage. Like any other rookie, Ball will have to go through the natural learning process in the NBA.
His success will be his team's success. The sky is his limit, but he won't reach just yet. Ball will need to continue to work on his body, defense, and jump shot. But he is on the right track.
As long as Ball continues to play the game the right way and help his team win games every night, then everything else will fall into place, eventually. His triple-double on Saturday is proof enough that he is a special player. How many rookies can pull off a triple-double in their second official game with their NBA team? Yes, it is true that it is a summer league game, but no other rookie is being held under more scrutiny than Lonzo Ball. In every game he plays, all eyes are on him. All eyes will continue to be on Ball.
