EL SEGUNDO — His presence represented the main consolation prize the Lakers received for finishing last season with their worst record in franchise history. His work ethic, versatility and wingspan could all play a large part in bolstering the Lakers’ otherwise non-existent defense in recent years. With the Lakers no longer featuring a star that both dominated the scoring column and the limelight, his arrival could represent the Lakers’ new face in their franchise.
Yet as Lakers forward Brandon Ingram begins his rookie season, there are many clear signs the team has not exactly greeted its No. 2 draft pick as a savoir.