Without question, the biggest News this offseason for the Los Angleles Lakers was the acquisition of LeBron James. No matter where you are as a franchise, when you have the chance to snag the best player in the game today, you go for it -- and that's exactly what the purple and gold did.
That said, beyond all the hype and attention that that gets, the Lakers have been quietly building a solid roster of young talent with the hope of climbing back to the top of the league, among the upper echelon of talent. One of those standouts has undoubtedly been Kyle Kuzma, who put on impressive performances throughout Summer League and his rookie campaign in the 2017/2018 season.
Kyle Kuzma not resting on his laurels for the Los Angeles Lakers
As the 27th overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft by the Brooklyn Nets (and traded to the Los Angeles Lakers on draft night), Kyle Kuzma proved to be an absolute steal given that he was picked so late. Averaging 16.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, he proved invaluable for the purple and gold during his rookie campaign. With impressive numbers like these so early in his career, he could have easily patted himself on the back and called it a day. However, the young standout has dedicated himself to improving upon an already impressive rookie run.
As a new member of the Lakers, there's no better person to seek advice from than Laker legend Kobe Bryant -- and that's exactly what Kuzma did.
Kuzma worked out with Bryant over the summer, and KB24 had nothing but good things to say about him.
Kyle Kuzma talks about how he has improved for the Los Angeles Lakers
During a recent interview with Mike Trudell of Lakers.com, Kuzma relayed that he's gotten even better since last season: "I'm stronger. I got more handle. I watch more film now to really understand things on the floor that I didn't see last year."
While Kyle Kuzma put together an impressive season in terms of individual stats and accolades for a rookie, it will be interesting to continue to watch him improve as he gains more experience out on the court -- especially with LeBron James, Rajon Rondo, and other recent acquisitions pushing the ball up the floor.
While the Los Angeles Lakers may not win a title this year, the direction that the team is moving in is a positive one. The recent acquisitions and the improvement of young talent means that things are definitely on the up for the purple and gold -- and the pieces are certainly in place.