This year’s rookie class for the Los Angeles Lakers has been one of the most productive ever. Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, and Josh Hart have all proven their ability. Meanwhile, second-round pick, center Thomas Bryant has been excellent while developing in the G-League with the South Bay Lakers.
With the main roster boasting a deep frontcourt including Kuzma, Brook Lopez, Julius Randle, and Larry Nance Jr., finding minutes for Bryant has been a difficult task. Nonetheless Bryant has taken it all in stride and is working hard to use the opportunities he’s given to develop.
After spending some more time in the G-League, the Lakers have recalled Bryant to the main roster via the South Bay Lakers Twitter:
Thomas Bryant has been recalled by the @Lakers. The rookie center has shot 60.2% from the field and 40.7% from three in 20 G League games.
Details | https://t.co/ukgfdQvE8D pic.twitter.com/bI2zTDbrWE
— South Bay Lakers (@SouthBayLakers) January 20, 2018
In addition to those excellent shooting percentages, Bryant is averaging 20.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks with the South Bay Lakers. Finding a consistent role for him is still unlikely as the Lakers still have many players ahead of him on the depth chart, but getting plenty of practice time with all of them is also very valuable.
Bryant has the potential to bring two things that the Lakers sorely need. His rim protection is needed as Brook Lopez is the only player who averages more than one block per game. And of course the Lakers are still the worst three-point shooting team in the NBA.
The Lakers have done a good job using their G-League affiliate to develop players into good contributors by the time they were called up and Bryant could very well be the next in line.
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