The Los Angeles Lakers had high expectations for Lonzo Ball when they selected him with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. At times, the Southern California native showed flashes of brilliance. In fact, he averaged 7.2 assists in his rookie season and appeared to be progressing well, though he struggled from the free-throw line.

Ball, who was traded to the Pelicans this summer as part of the Anthony Davis deal, believes he didn't live up to the standard that might be associated with a No. 2 overall pick. However, he says he's happy to be in New Orleans:

“Nah, nah, that wasn’t too much pressure,” Ball told The Athletic. “That’s what I was supposed to do. No. 2 pick, you’re supposed to do a job — you’re supposed to turn the franchise around. And I don’t think I did it to the best of my abilities. I didn’t live up to that standard. Now I’m here and I’m blessed to be here.”

The Pelicans are going to be a team to watch for this season, as they have several talented young players, including No. 1 overall pick Zion Williamson. And with so many scoring options, Ball should have no problem generating a high number of assists.

The Lakers, on the other hand, will be looking to make a championship run. With Anthony Davis joining LeBron James, many NBA experts are viewing Los Angeles as a favorite in the Western Conference.