NBA Rumors: Brandon Ingram May Follow Fate Of D’Angelo Russell, Julius Randle

The Los Angeles Lakers have taken in several promising young players, but none have really hit their stride. This included the likes of Julius Randle and D’Angelo Russell, two hyped youngsters who are now with the New Orleans Pelicans and the Brooklyn Nets.

Right now, all eyes are on Brandon Ingram who the Lakers selected second overall during the 2016 NBA Draft behind Ben Simmons of the Philadelphia 76ers. The 21-year-old from Duke drew a comparison to Kevin Durant of the Golden State Warriors. So far, Ingram has hardly come close although he has been showing signs of promise.

Now, pundits are suggesting that the Lakers may eventually deal off Ingram – another youngster that the Lakers had hoped would eventually become new stars for the purple and gold. But his lack of consistency and a decent outside shot may work against him with the Lakers hoping to bring back the glory days, Eric Pincus of the Bleacher Report said.

Further, critics are now beginning to ask if he can truly be a fit alongside LeBron James. At some point moving forward, Los Angeles may have to decide on whether to keep Ingram or not since this may become a key factor in luring a second NBA star to the fold.

Skimming through the headlines as of late, the name of Anthony Davis has been often mentioned. And while the all-star center continues to avoid or refute these insinuations, there are repercussions ahead. That includes potentially making a choice between Ingram and Davis.

Should this be the scenario come NBA free agency, there is no question that Ingram could end up being the sacrificial lamb. Patience is something the Lakers don’t have right now and if they are to rise and contend once more, there will be casualties according to Fadeawayworld.net.

As far as Ingram is concerned, his star may shine playing for another team. Part of the evaluation process may depend on how he performs for the rest of the season and how far the Lakers are able to go.

This early, the best the Lakers can eye is the NBA playoffs. As to how far they can get will depend on the health of James and the response of his supporting cast. Davis is not the only one the Lakers may target in the offseason with other high profile names also available. Hence, brace for another crazy summer where players are likely to receive ridiculous offers from teams.