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Lonzo Ball, the 2nd overall pick by the Los Angeles Lakers in this year's NBA draft, is potentially the most controversial rookie after LeBron James' first season as a professional back in 2003.
The starting point guard for the Lakers, Lonzo is now struggling a lot in terms of accuracy when shooting the ball. Many analysts have been quick to judge and are suggesting he's a bust, but how much should we really be worried about the 20-year-old?
Lonzo's Rookie season so far
It has been well-documented that Lonzo has struggled from every area of the floor in terms of his shooting consistency. Initially, many voiced their concerns about an unattractive shooting form - but this has progressed further and the issue surrounds his shooting percentage both in and out of the perimeter.
He is averaging 33.4 minutes per game, which is a significant amount, but a very low shooting percentage of 31.5% from the field. Nine points per game, seven rebounds and 7.2 assists per game are his averages to date.
25.7% from the three-point line, as well as 46.7% from the free throw line just reiterate his shooting struggles at present. He has recorded two triple-doubles and five double-doubles so far, which has drawn comparisons to LeBron's own rookie season - he managed twelve double-doubles.
Despite shooting inconsistencies, Lonzo still possesses great court vision, is a great passer and also has good rebounding while his defensive efforts are often gone unnoticed.
Analysts' view on Lonzo
Many basketball analysts like Skip Bayless and Collin Cowherd are curious about Lonzo's execution until now. Some have displayed their affection for Lonzo, while others have been quick to criticise.
According to Chris Broussard, people should collectively let Lonzo do exactly what he is doing now - play. Easier said than done with so much hype and expectation to fufill.
Skip Bayless too tweeted about what Lonzo has accomplished so far and according to him, Lonzo is far from being labelled a bust so early in his professional career.
Lavar's loudmouth for his son
Lonzo's famous father LaVar has always been vocal and controversial with his comments in the media when discussing his children. In particular as Lonzo's the first born and first to go professional, he has showered praise upon him to the point where many feel obliged to believe the hype.
After all, the figure who has nurtured him since he was a child should know more than anyone else. He has made some bold comments like suggesting Lonzo's already better than players like Stephen Curry, Jason Kidd and Magic Johnson.
During their recent nervy encounter earlier this week, LaVar again had words to say about the Golden State Warriors star and his son.
Lonzo has unsurprisingly been fairly quiet when asked to discuss some of his father's comments, instead choosing to let his basketball do the talking and avoid comparing himself to all-time greats.
The level of hate LaVar has received has, in turn, made more people dislike Lonzo too - in the hope that poor performances and failure will prove his father wrong.
NBA players' take on Lonzo
Elite NBA players like Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant have defended Lonzo when questioned about him recently.
Prior to their overtime victory against the Lakers earlier this weekend, Curry said the following:
Kevin Durant also had some good words for Lonzo and defended him:
Author's take
I think that Lonzo should be left alone, given some space to figure out specific situations - which will ultimately help improve his game and mindset for the future. If you disregard his poor shooting statistics, you'll see that he's actually performing fairly well not least for a rookie who is still getting accustomed to the demands of the league.
LaVar's statements can often be ignored as his trash-talking style is exactly that: it helps to generate interest and create hype but regularly lacks substance. The endless criticism from both analysts as well as the public should stop, allowing Lonzo the opportunity to do his work effectively.
Judging him after just 20 games into his professional NBA career is not going to benefit anyone long-term, instead providing him further pressure to perform.
Guess the Lakers players!
