LeBron James continues to chat up Brandon Ingram as a budding superstar, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin relays. The Lakers small forward got a chance to play the point in the latest preseason game and racked up 31 points, nine rebounds and three steals. “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,” James said, adding, “I know what I see in him, and he’s looking for this opportunity to make this next jump in his third year.” Ingram is eligible for a rookie scale extension next offseason and James’ praise won’t hurt his cause.
We have more from around the Western Conference:
- Richaun Holmes isn’t a scorer but his other attributes have made him a favorite with the Suns’ coaching staff, as Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic notes. The big man has earned a role with Phoenix with his energetic style. “He moves well, is a live body, good defender,” coach Igor Kokoskov said. “Very athletic. He’s got to help us defensively, protect the paint. Runs the floor and he fits in well with what we’re doing here.” Holmes was acquired from the Sixers for $1MM in July.
- Warriors forward Kevon Looney drew lukewarm interest from a handful of teams in free agency, he revealed to Mark Medina of the San Jose Mercury News. The Rockets, Timberwolves, Clippers, Sixers and Hawks made contact but “nobody really offered,” Looney said. He was an unrestricted free agent after Golden State declined to pick up his option last fall but he settled for a one-year, veteran’s minimum deal.
- Lottery pick Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has earned significant playing time during training camp, according to Andrew Greif of the Los Angeles Times. The University of Kentucky product is averaging 11 PPG and 4.5 APG in 24.0 MPG for the Clippers in two preseason outings.
SGA is down right nasty in the open floor. Once he can constantly hit the 3 he will b a star. Ingram and Kuzma r more then likely the reason LeBron went to LAL. Those 2 r potential stars.
Now if u frequent this site much I have broke down my starter to star to super star rants.
Can’t believe scouting reports said he was too mild. He almost bullies!
Kerr says Looney will be a solid 10 year bench player for the Warriors. Really should read “The Sporting News” article on the Lakers center problem.
Kerr said he would be a solid 10-year Pro, not necessarily for the Warriors.
Another team needing a good role player who knows how to play defense, can move his feet on the perimeter doesn’t need the ball and does the Dirty Work will always have a job. Especially if he is athletic at all.
Kerr did not go out on a limb with that call.
Make that “Sports Illustrated.”
Lakers need that Ingram becomes a star to try to make a good playoff run this year and to be a contender next year with another superstar.
Ingram’s knock coming into the league was his body, too skinny to handle to punishment of the NBA. Talent was never in question, and it wouldn’t surprise me to see him, playing with a bunch of passers for the first time, look like a star this year.