When it comes to purely physical gifts, very few players can match the combination of size and strength that Julius Randle has. When combining his physical talent with his playmaking ability, Randle gives Los Angeles Lakers head coach Luke Walton an outstanding weapon.
Randle’s talents were on full display Friday night in the Lakers win over the Golden State Warriors. Randle posted a double-double with 20 points and 14 rebounds. He also added two assists, a steal, and a block in his all-around performance.
After the win, Walton was very exact in his description of Randle via Mark Medina of the LA Daily News:
Luke Walton on Julius Randle: "He's a monster. He's big , strong and quick as anybody in the league."
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) November 5, 2016
During the off-season, there were some who believed that maybe Randle would be better suited coming off the bench, and weren’t sure how much better he can get. He has quickly shut that down and has been one of the best players on the Lakers so far this year. Walton’s offense has allowed Randle to flourish as a playmaker, and Randle has simultaneously slowed down and been more in control.
Randle has also shown off his improved jump shot. While it still isn’t quite as consistent or has the range that many would like, he is shooting it with more confidence and without hesitation which will surely lead to more success.
Walton has brought the best out of a number of players so far this season. Players like Nick Young and Larry Nance Jr., in addition to Randle, have looked excellent so far this season and seem to have more confidence and belief in what they are doing as opposed to a year ago.
Randle’s development has been a great story of this season for the Lakers and if he can continue being the monster that Walton sees, the Lakers will continue to surprise.
