The Los Angeles Lakers are now 5-26 on the season after their loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday night. Although the team will likely finish with one of the three worst records in the NBA this season, their young players have been a bright spot with their recent progression.
Many fans would like to see D’Angelo Russell and Julius Randle get more playing time as they will be integral parts of the rebuilding process, but other young stars have developed their skills in increased roles.
Larry Nance Jr. was not seen as a major off-season addition, but he has played very well since becoming a starter and coach Byron Scott talked about his play after the loss, via Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
Byron Scott on Larry Nance, Jr.: “I loved the way he played tonight. His confidence is growing and growing.” (on @TWCSportsNet)
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) December 28, 2015
In 11 games as a starter, Nance Jr. has averaged 6.5 points and 4.7 rebounds per game. The forward out of Wyoming has impressed fans with his incredible leaping abilities and his athleticism is much needed on this Lakers roster.
Coach Scott said he will stick with having Nance Jr. in the starting lineup until the end of the calendar year. At this point, Russell and Randle come off the bench for the Lakers and it will be interesting to see what Scott does once 2016 rolls around.