Los Angeles Lakers favor Carlos Boozer over Julius Randle?
By Bryan Rose
There’s no doubt that Julius Randle is going to be a huge part of the Los Angeles Lakers future (assuming he’s not traded down the road), but during his rookie season? He may be forced to fall behind Carlos Boozer in the pecking order.
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While Julius Randle doesn’t lack any confidence (this is the same guy who confidently said he’d win the 2014-15 Rookie of the Year award), it’s the belief of Scott Howard-Cooper that Randle’s youth could hurt him this season.
Given what appears to be a sub-par roster, it seems questionable to think that Julius Randle won’t get a significant amount of run, but Carlos Boozer’s veteran status combined with the Lakers (more like Kobe Bryant’s) desire to win may see the former Duke star edge out Randle for playing time.
"Randle is obviously the future in L.A. But as a prospect who projects as being able to score inside right away, he has a chance to be the present as well. However, with win-now mode in effect as long as the roster is built around Kobe Bryant, Boozer has an advantage as a veteran."
While Boozer may be the better player currently, it’s very questionable if the Los Angeles Lakers have enough talent to eclipse 35 wins. Given that, it’s a little odd to think that Julius Randle wouldn’t get a lion’s share of minutes, especially given Boozer isn’t in the long term plans of the Los Angeles Lakers.
For what it’s worth, Lakers head coach Byron Scott previously stated Julius Randle could eventually become a starter, though would need to outplay those he’s in competition with.