Even though there have been some struggles as of late, the general belief from the outside looking in is that the Los Angeles Lakers have a great collection of young talent. D’Angelo Russell, Julius Randle, and Brandon Ingram are all extremely talented with a ton of potential and Jordan Clarkson, Larry Nance Jr., and Ivica Zubac are all a big part of this team’s future as well.
The Lakers have gotten compliments on how they’ve been playing throughout the year and the latest comes from Los Angeles Clippers coach Doc Rivers who spoke highly of the young players and head coach Luke Walton before Saturday’s game via Bill Oram of the OC Register:
Doc Rivers: "I like the way they play. I love their young talent … And I think Luke's done an amazing job."
— Bill Oram (@billoram) January 14, 2017
Rivers added some thoughts on the Lakers’ unselfishness as well as one issue that has plagued them via Mark Medina of the LA Daily News:
Doc's view from afar is he doesn't think Lakers' players are playing with selfishness and are consumed with trying to be the guy
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) January 14, 2017
That issue of players trying to be the guy is a major factor as to why the Lakers have struggled when teams make runs on them. Instead of sticking with the team game that works so well, players begin going one-on-one which makes it easier for the defense to stop them and ultimately puts the Lakers further behind.
This is still a process for this young team and they are growing along at a good pace. Getting more consistent, particularly with their effort, and not panicking when things get tough is something that must improve, but with Walton leading the way and so much talent, it is only a matter of time.