Lonzo Ball is officially struggling, and it’s no longer just LaVar Ball‘s playoff prediction that’s in danger anymore.
The Los Angeles Lakers‘ rookie simply isn’t shooting well these days and his confidence seems to be impacted by his accuracy issues. It was never more clear than on Wednesday night, when Joel Embiid manhandled the Lakers with a career-best performance while Ball had just two points in a loss.
Embiid’s celebratory Instagram post called out Lonzo’s father LaVar, but Embiid later made it clear he wasn’t throwing shade at Lonzo, who he believes will get it together. And Ball’s coach, Luke Walton, appears to agree with Embiid in that regard.
Walton spoke to the media on Thursday and said Ball will remain the starter at point for Los Angeles despite his on-court struggles.
Walton was asked if he's considered bringing Lonzo off the bench in order to manage expectations. He said no. "He's our starter."
— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) November 16, 2017
There are two sides to this, as there often are. There is the fact that Walton is expressing his confidence in his rookie, which might give him a boost. But the worry here is that Ball will continue to start not because it’s what’s best for his confidence and development, but that the stigma of him coming off the bench would mean he’s a disappointment for the Lakers.
The expectations for Ball are tremendous, perhaps higher than any rookie in recent NBA memory. As placid and confident as Ball has been throughout his journey to the NBA, there’s nothing like finally getting there and things not immediately working out. The stigma of coming off the bench seems like an unacceptable option for Ball and the Lakers right now.
