NBA Rumors: Lonzo Ball May Follow Fate Of Russell, Randle To Stardom

Lonzo Ball of the Los Angeles Lakers finds himself unable to finish the 2018-19 NBA season due to injury. His health has been questioned by critics although it has not stopped teams from exploring a potential trade with the 21-year-old guard.

Looking ahead, there is no telling if Lonzo Ball will stay with the Lakers. Although he is touted as one of the up and coming stars of the league, the second overall pick of the 2017 NBA Draft is fully aware that getting moved to another team is something that is totally out of his hands.

“If I get traded, then I get traded. But I’m going to be ready to go. The goal is to be the best player I can for whichever team,” Ball said to The Athletic.

When it comes to playing NBA ball, Ball’s shooting has been the most criticized. However, his durability is also another cause for concern and this season is a perfect example. He also dealt with an injury last season, the time when Kawhi Leonard was linked to the purple and gold. Heading into another offseason, there is a possibility that Ball’s name may be once again mentioned on potential Lakers deals, the Silver Screen and Roll said.

Aside from his shooting stroke, there is no denying that Ball has the skill set to become one of the NBA’s elite guards. He is a bonafide court general and possesses a high basketball IQ. Should he manage to stay healthy, Ball will eventually become one of the most-sought-after cagers in the pro ranks. But will he shine with the Lakers?

That is a fair question to ask. One can only look at the other previous young players the Lakers ended up trading. That includes D’Angelo Russell, Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson, and Larry Nance Jr. All these players are now with different NBA teams and the move helped them get to another level.

For Ball, there are a lot of things to consider being with the Lakers. There is the fact that he will have to find his niche playing behind LeBron James for at least three more years. That span could help him develop that lacking shooting stroke although Los Angeles can also opt to include him in trade deals should a hard-to-pass-up player is on the table.

While that scenario may seem tough, it could eventually work to Ball’s advantage. Proof of that is the breakthrough other former young Lakers had – meaning the former UCLA Bruin could also shine playing for another team given proper playing time and guidance.