Sans LeBron James and Rajon Rondo, the Los Angeles Lakers transformed back to their 2017-18 selves with their young core getting as much run as possible. Los Angeles sought leadership with the absence of the two veterans. Fortunately for the purple and gold, Lonzo Ball was present to keep their heads above water.

The second overall pick of the 2017 NBA draft put up an all-around performance for the Lakers against the Sacramento Kings, notching 20 points, nine rebounds, 12 assists, two steals, and one block.

Despite his on-court brilliance, Lonzo Ball was a picture of concern a couple of times as he suffered from cramps. While Ball was able to play through the first, his body simply could not go on after cramping up the second time during the game's crucial period.

The Lakers paid a hefty price, losing this contest to the Kings, 117-116, on the strength of a Bogdan Bogdanovic three-pointer at the buzzer.

After the game, beat reporter Mike Trudell provided an update on the wiry point guard:

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The Lakers' record now stands at 20-15 as they struggle to find consistency. They have now lost four of their last six games heading into a matchup with Staples Center co-tenant L.A. Clippers Friday night.

LeBron James and Rajon Rondo aren't expected to suit up for that game, so a lot will be expected out of Lonzo Ball once more.

Prior to Thursday night's game, Ball was averaging 8.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.5 steals per contest. These numbers are going to get a slight bump up after his performance against the Kings. But it will be tougher for Ball Friday on the tail end of a back-to-back given that he's coming off cramps and will be matched up against a handful in Patrick Beverley, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Avery Bradley.