Lakers Video: Lonzo Ball Stars In ‘The Equalizer 2’ Movie Trailer
Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Lonzo Ball faced more pressure and expectations than any other Los Angeles Lakers rookie since Magic Johnson. While much of that was created by his outspoke father, LaVar Ball, Johnson didn’t exactly ease the situation.

Albeit jokingly and in a motivation manner, the Lakers president of basketball operations joked with Ball to leave a few of his records unbroken. After an encouraging showing in the Las Vegas Summer League, the young point guard faced heightened expectations.

There were flashes of the talent LaVar and Johnson raved about, to go along with areas that needed improvement, which is to be expected with a rookie.

One of those was not assimilating to life in a professional locker room, as Ball meshed seamlessly with his teammates and proved to be extremely confident and comfortable in his own skin.

Although mild-mannered, the 20-year-old was often mentioned by teammates as having a great sense of humor. Some of that was on display in Ball’s special movie trailer for “The Equalizer 2,” which he shared on Twitter:

As for matters on the court, Ball averaged 10.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 7.2 assists and 1.7 steals in 52 games (50 starts). He earned a spot on the All-Rookie Second Team.

Ball finished tied for first among all rookies in steals, ranked second in assists and fourth in rebounds. He tied LeBron James for the youngest player in NBA history with multiple triple-doubles in a single season.

While Ball enjoyed a successful rookie campaign, the Lakers front office challenged him to make considerable growth during the summer. Kyle Kuzma, another who the team asked to further improve, said he’s seen a shift in Ball taking the weight room more seriously.

As part of our efforts to help you understand how we handle the personal information you share with us, and in preparation for the new European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), we’ve updated our Privacy & Cookies Policy. The updated Privacy & Cookies Policy will take effect on May 22, 2018. By using our services on or after that date, you’ll be agreeing to our updated Privacy & Cookies Policy. We recommend that you read our updated Privacy & Cookies Policy in full.

You May Also Like

VIDEOS: Lakers Practice – Injury Setbacks Continue, Nash’s Legacy

The Los Angeles Lakers had the intention of resuming practice today, but…

Video: Team USA vs. Lithuania Olympic Preview

After breaking what seemed like every mark in the record books against…

VIDEO/PHOTOS: Lakers Giving Back This Holiday Season

This holiday season, 50 kids from the Boys and Girls Clubs of…

VIDEO: Top 5 Lakers NBA Finals Moments

5. Jerry West Hits From Way Downtown On April 29, 1970, ‘Mr.…