Ben Simmons isn’t the only rookie putting up historic numbers so early in his career. Los Angeles Lakers rookie Lonzo Ball is also filling up the stat sheet in record fashion, particularly in terms of his rebounding and assist numbers.
Don't worry, it won't to take long to read this list of players who averaged 9 assists and 9 rebounds in their first 4 NBA games (since '83) pic.twitter.com/HMf7bLPZGc
— Basketball Reference (@bball_ref) October 26, 2017
But despite those impressive figures, it has hardly been smooth sailing for Lonzo Ball through his first four games in the league. His shooting has been a significant problem, as evidenced by his ugly 31.6 percent clip from the field and 22.7 percent from beyond the arc. Ball himself admitted the Lakers would have a better shot to win more games if he improved his shot.
Article Continues BelowHowever, it speaks to Lonzo Ball’s ability and his attitude that he’s still contributing significantly in other facets of the game even while his shot’s not falling. He’s obviously going to get his assists as he runs the team and sets up his teammates, which is his main strength. But he’ll also make some plays on defense and crash the boards, which he has done thus far to an impressive level.
Ball most likely won’t do a Russell Westbrook and average close to a triple-double for an entire season. But because of his all-around game, there's a good chance he continues putting up impressive assist and rebound numbers for the duration of his rookie year.