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Los Angeles Lakers budding star Brandon Ingram is setting an individual goal for himself this season: to become an All-Star. The third-year small forward out of Duke is envisioning a promising season for the Lakers, including what could be his breakout year, according to Bill Oram of The Athletic.
“I want to be an All-Star,” he told The Athletic. “I want to be an All-Star this year.”
In the crowded Western Conference, the declaration may sound ambitious, to say the least. But Ingram doesn’t think so.
“Sounds pretty realistic to me,” he said.
Ingram will have his work cut out for him as the West already has a number of frontcourt All-Stars fighting for spots. An All-Star selection would seem far-fetched for many, but in the Lakers' first three preseason games, the team has made full use of Ingram on both ends of the floor. This is an indication that despite having LeBron James as their main guy, the Lakers are still bent on making Ingram a focal point of their offense.
The 21-year-old just scored 31 points in the Lakers' previous preseason game against the Sacramento Kings. Ingram started at point guard in the contest with Rajon Rondo and Lonzo Ball out.
But before he could set his sights on playing in one of the world's most celebrated games come February, Ingram knows he has to hone his leadership skills first.
On the court, he tries to lead by example. Off of it, his tone is soft.
“I think he’s more of the Kawhi Leonard personality,” coach Luke Walton said. Ingram is trying to change that. Slowly.
“I didn’t have a voice last year,” Ingram said. “I don’t talk much this year. But when I say something, I try to get a point across.”
Alongside fellow young guns Ball and Kyle Kuzma, Ingram will receive plenty of knowledge and support from his new veteran teammates this season.
