Brandon Ingram showing potential as LeBron James' next sidekick on Los Angeles Lakers

Jay Asser 15:54 05/10/2018
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  • LeBron James has always had a Robin to his Batman when his teams have been at their best, and in Brandon Ingram, the Los Angeles Lakers could have the next dynamic pairing.

    When James joined the Lakers this summer, many assumed another star would be on the way. Instead, Los Angeles signed a bunch of veteran role players, seemingly putting all the pressure on LeBron’s broad shoulders.

    However, the second star the Lakers are searching for could come from within if Ingram makes a jump in his third season.

    The former second overall pick looked like a potential franchise cornerstone last season, when he averaged 16.1 points on 47.0 per cent shooting from the field and 39.0 per cent from deep, along with 5.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists.

    At just 21, Ingram’s ceiling is sky high, and if the limited sample size playing next to LeBron in the preseason is any indication, the two could have a symbiotic relationship on the court.

    After James and Ingram showed a nice rapport in the first preseason game, the Lakers’ young gun really impressed with his showing in Thursday’s 128-123 win over the Sacramento Kings.

    Ingram filled in as the starting point guard and put his ability to score and be a playmaker on display, finishing with 31 points on 10-of-15 shooting to go with nine rebounds, three assists and three steals.

    James, who has spoke highly of Ingram ever since arriving to Los Angeles, continued his praise after the Lakers’ first preseason victory.

    “I thought he was great,” LeBron said. “His pace, his ability to play the point and play the wing, he’s a very special talent, and we’re definitely happy to have him on our side.

    “I know what I see in him, and he’s looking for his opportunity to make the next jump in his third year. There’s a lot of upside in that kid. I’m happy to try and give him as much as I can.”

    Ingram may never be Dwyane Wade or Kyrie Irving for LeBron, but the potential to get there is undeniable.

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