The Los Angeles Lakers have gotten quite a bit of talent in the last few years. Kyle Kuzma has climbed up the ladder in his short career as a
Kuzma went from a late-second-round to now being a close second offensive option on a talented Lakers team. He has the potential to be one of the best forwards in the league. Throughout this season, Kuzma’s game has improved.
Post Position
Kuzma’s composure and patience in and out of the post are similar to Paul Millsap’s, except twice as fast. His post moves are maturing, and his quick step off of a head fake or ball fake is why he’s had a 25-point average in the month of December. 85% of his looks are attacking the rim. Whether it’s creating for himself or a set-up from a teammate, Kuzma is always looking to attack.
Running without the basketball
One thing that I’ve noticed is that Kuzma is always moving. He’s either setting a screen, running off of a screen,
Average Spot-up Shooter:
With his build and stature, he becomes more effective with a jump-shot, which he’s been improving on since his days at Utah. Kuzma excels best when getting that kick out to the corner three-point line. Shooting 32% from three this season, Kuzma has earned some silver shooting badges in my book. How many second-year players have more than one skill-set they can add to their arsenal? Not many.
Underrated Defender
Despite the .6 steals and block averages he has on the season, his defense is overlooked. His footwork is exceptional, and the way he shifts down to adjust to what the offensive man is doing with the basketball shows he was disciplined and coached well in his younger years. Every coach puts emphasis on not giving up the baseline, and with Kuzma, he doesn’t let up once. His recovery time and help defense make it easier for everyone around him. Kuzma does things that don’t show up on the stat sheet like making switches, defending positions 1-5, knowing when to help, and most importantly, boxing out with authority.
He has the potential to become one of the best forwards in this league, while most players in their second year are just becoming average basketball players, at best. Some might say the change came when LeBron came into town, but that’s what great players do. They make guys like Kuzma better offensively and defensively. Kuzma has my vote for the most improved player award to end the season.