Lonzo Ball faced more pressure and expectations than any other Los Angeles Lakers rookie since Magic Johnson. While much of that was created by his outspoke father, LaVar Ball, Johnson didn’t exactly ease the situation.
Albeit jokingly and in a motivation manner, the Lakers president of basketball operations joked with Ball to leave a few of his records unbroken. After an encouraging showing in the Las Vegas Summer League, the young point guard faced heightened expectations.
There were flashes of the talent LaVar and Johnson raved about, to go along with areas that needed improvement, which is to be expected with a rookie.