With the second overall pick in the NBA draft, the Los Angeles Lakers took the 6 foot 9 inch small forward from Duke, Brandon Ingram. During his one season at Duke, Ingram averaged 16.7 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.9 assists. As a Lakers fan, I was really excited with the pick; even if we got the number one pick, I would have taken Ingram because he would be a better fit in the Lakers' lineup than Simmons would be.
With the way Ingram played in college, his game sort of reminded me of Kevin Durant. Both Ingram and Durant were scrawny when they entered the league, and look at what Durant has done in his career so far. I actually watched Ingram a lot while he was at Duke, and what impressed me the most about his game was his ability to score. That is the one thing Ingram has over Simmons, his ability to score.
Also, Ingram's work ethic really impressed me. I remember during a draft day interview he said, "When being recruited by Duke, Coach K came into my house and said, 'You are not guaranteed playing time,' and that only made me work harder." He almost has the work ethic Kobe Bryant had.
The Lakers have a good fit of young players and veterans, and I think that would help Ingram develop as a player. Playing alongside veterans Luol Deng and Jose Calderon. Playing with the young guys DeAngelo Russell, Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson to name a few. With Ingram's, Russell's and Clarkson's ability to score I think Laker basketball will be fun to watch, especially under new head coach Luke Walton. The future is bright for the Lakers.
