NBA News: Los Angeles Lakers To Start Brandon Ingram Off The Bench; Luke Walton Explained The Reason

Newly acquired Los Angeles Lakers Coach Luke Walton confirms that Brandom Ingram will play coming off the bench and place Luol Deng to start. Luke Walton said that this season will be a part of the 82 games training of the young Brandon Ingram.

In a press release by SB Nation, Lakers Coach Luke Walton said he wants to develop their young core players by rewarding them as they play well. Walton also cited that he wants the veterans not only to mentor the young guys, but also to play and maximize their contribution.

Luke Walton said that though Brandon Ingram is a good playmaker and very versatile, it appears D'Angelo Russell is more NBA ready compared to Ingram. Walton stated having Brandon Ingram off the bench will be a big factor, Ingram will no longer tie himself defending star players of his same position, providing him the best opportunity to showcase his skills offensively. In addition, Brandon Ingram can own the court without passing the ball to Russell, Jordan Clarkson or Julius Randle.

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According to Ecumenical's report, some basketball analysts are not in favor of how Walton handles things out for Brandon Ingram. Many believed that Ingram is a prodigy and can contribute to the team right away.

Brandon Ingram was drafted 2nd overall by the Los Angeles Lakers from Duke. Ingram boasts a massive wingspan of 7'3" though he only stands 6'8". Ingram is a very versatile player, he can shoot from the perimeter up to the 3-point line and is very creative when driving the lane. Ingram averaged 17.3 points, 6.8 rebounds with 1.1 steal and 1.4 blocks per contest.

As for Lakers Coach Luke Walton, Ingram needs time and will be in the starting lineup in the future. At this moment, Walton said that its best for Ingram to come off the bench behind Luol Deng.