It’s a new era in Los Angeles.
With Kobe Bryant off into the sunset, it’s time for a new regime to bring the Lakers back to prominence.
Former Lakers player, Luke Walton, has took over for Byron Scott, while young prospects such as D’Angelo Russell, Brandon Ingram and Jordan Clarkson look to push forward the tradition.
However, only one of them can be the true leader in the eyes of Luke Walton and that’s D’Angelo Russell.
“This is the point guard! He’s the leader!” Walton bellowed. “When he speaks, guys, you gotta listen.”
With this only being his sophomore season, is young Russell ready?
I believe so.
First of all, spending an entire season with Kobe is mentally challenging to say the least, but it builds character to say the least. Plus, when factoring in the embarrassment Russell endured last season with Nick Young, you have to believe that’s extra motivation.
With all of that being said, the most convincing piece of evidence is how Russell conducted himself during Summer League play. It was clear who ran the team on and off the court.
After this vote of confidence from Walton, there’s no reason why Russell shouldn’t become the vocal leader of this young Lakers squad.