The Los Angeles Lakers made a bevy of moves this offseason with the hope that their young core can continue to develop. It goes without saying that point guard Lonzo Ball will perhaps be under the biggest microscope going into the 2018-19 NBA season.

The consensus is seemingly split on whether or not Ball will pan out for the Lakers. According to Bleacher Report's Leo Sepkowitz, he has a strong believer in forward Michael Beasley.

“I'm a big Lonzo fan. I don't understand how Lonzo gets so much criticism, averaging almost 11 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, a steal and a block per game. Granted, his percentages were low, but you all think Russell Westbrook can shoot, and he's got the same three-point percentage. (Ed: Lonzo's was a tick higher last year.) Two years ago, Malcolm Brogdon won Rookie of the Year with 10 points and three rebounds a game, but now Lonzo is 11-7-7 and he's a bust? I'm a Lonzo fan. I think if you just let him play and not worry about if he can shoot or not, I think you will see a player that knows how and wants to play a complete game of basketball. Same thing with Kyle Kuzma. I liked him in college but didn't know how skilled he was until I played against him in the NBA. Josh Hart, same thing.”

Whether or not one agrees with Beasley, there is plenty of truth to what he is saying. Milwaukee Bucks point guard Malcolm Brogdon managed to win Rookie of the Year in a rather unimpressive fashion. His 10.2 points and 26.4 minutes per game were the lowest averages for any winner in the award's history. However, he was praised as the biggest steal of his draft class up until last season. Meanwhile, Ball put up better numbers in a draft that included three bona fide options for the Rookie of the Year award.

Beasley's praise of Ball should come as no surprise. He has been enamored with his game ever since he was still with the New York Knicks last season. There is no question that Ball's game is still a work in progress, especially with the arrival of LeBron James. That said, it is safe to assume Beasley is looking forward to jelling with his new teammate.