There was some fear that Los Angeles Lakers’ first round pick Julius Randle would need foot surgery to repair a previous injury from his high school days that didn’t heal properly.
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Those fears have now been put to rest as the Los Angeles Times’ Mike Bresnahan reports that Randle will not need foot surgery:
Lakers draft pick Julius Randle does not need surgery on his right foot, foot specialists have determined. He has been cleared to play.
— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) July 3, 2014
This comes as great news for Randle and the Lakers as he could have missed up to six months if surgery had taken place. This also will also likely allow Randle to participate on the Lakers’ Summer League team.
Assuming Randle signs his deal before it starts on July 11, Randle will join fellow draft pick Jordan Clarkson on the team, along with Kendall Marshall and a host of other interesting prospects.
Randle was considered one of the most NBA-ready draft prospects and many believe he will slide into the Lakers starting lineup immediately. He is expected to bring the Lakers a physical presence on the low-block, and great rebounding.
Randle grew up a fan of the Lakers and Kobe Bryant in particular, so he is undoubtedly relishing the chance to play with his childhood idol. Getting the chance to participate in the Summer League should also benefit him as he can test himself against NBA players and develop chemistry with his future teammates.
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Lakers Introduce Julius Randle Part 2