The performance Lonzo Ball had when the Los Angeles Lakers began their 2017-18 season versus the Los Angeles Clippers is a thing of the past. On Friday, Ball showed why he had so much hype entering the NBA. The Lakers rookie was one assist shy of a triple-double in their 132-130 win over the Phoenix Suns.

In nearly 40 minutes on the hardwood, Ball led the Lakers as he tallied 29 points, 11 rebounds, nine assists, and a steal. He shot 12-27 from the field, including 4-of-9 from three-point country. The 19-year-old made crucial baskets late in the fourth quarter that helped seal the victory for the purple and gold franchise.

Ball's game against the Suns is a perfect way for him to bounce back from a dreadful outing on opening night. In the Lakers' 108-92 defeat to the Clippers, it seemed like there were jitters, plus the fact that Patrick Beverley defended him. Beverley stuck with Ball each time he was on the court. The 29-year-old limited Ball to three points, nine rebounds, and four assists.

The Lakers are hoping Ball can continue playing like this for the rest of the regular season. If he does, they have a good chance of shattering expectations and maybe, end a four-year playoff drought. The last time the Lakers made it to the postseason was in 2013 when they still had Kobe Bryant.

Lakers came to play

Lonzo Ball received ample help in their recent win.

Aside from him, five other players also scored in double-digits for the Los Angeles Lakers. Brandon Ingram was the second-best scorer of the Lakers as he recorded 25 points. The 20-year-old from Duke also tallied two rebounds, one assist, one steal, and one block.

Starters Robin Lopez and Larry Nance Jr. contributed 19 and 14 points respectively for Los Angeles.

Lopez completed a double-double as he grabbed 11 boards. Jordan Clarkson and Kyle Kuzma powered the Lakers' second unit. Clarkson had 17 points, while Kuzma chipped in 15.

Jrue Holiday next

The test continues for Lonzo Ball in their next game as he is set to take on another veteran point guard. This Sunday, the Los Angeles Lakers will take on the winless New Orleans Pelicans (0-2) at the Staples Center.

Ball will have to go up against Jrue Holiday. Holiday is more of a pass-first playmaker, though he can score too. It means the 19-year-old Lakers newcomer must prove his defensive abilities. Ball showed already that he is a dangerous offensive weapon when he gets rolling.
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