It’s wild how much can change in just a few years, especially in the world of basketball. As a fellow Lakers fan, I totally remember that young core being drafted with so much hope and excitement. At the time, it was tough to predict how everyone would develop. Josh Hart, as you mentioned, wasn’t the flashiest player, but his consistency was undeniable. He didn’t necessarily have that standout skill, but he gave solid minutes and worked hard when he was on the court. It was one of those cases where you just appreciated the value he brought despite not being the “highlight reel” guy.
The backlash from die-hard Lakers fans when LeBron pushed for that trade for Anthony Davis was real. Everyone was super emotional, questioning if it was worth giving up so much young talent—especially after seeing some of them starting to show promise in their own right. But now, looking at the results, you’ve got to admit it was a bold move that paid off with that championship in 2020.
Fast forward to today, and yeah, it’s fair to say Josh Hart might have turned out to be one of the most valuable pieces of that trade, especially with the way his game has evolved. It’s pretty crazy to think about, but Hart has become such a versatile player, a triple-double machine at $20 million per year. He doesn’t have the flash of a Kuzma or the raw talent of Ingram, but he’s a steady presence, and he’s shown that he can contribute in so many ways on both ends of the floor.
As for Kuzma, he’s definitely a champion, but it’s true—what’s he up to these days? He’s been a solid scorer, but it feels like he’s been a bit of an afterthought in the bigger picture, despite his role in that championship run. Ingram, on the other hand, still has that incredible talent, but you’re right—what exactly do you get out of him at that price point? He’s had his moments, but it seems like he hasn’t yet reached the level of consistency you’d want from a max player.
Lonzo’s story is unfortunate, with his injuries significantly limiting his potential. It’s hard not to wonder where his career would be if he stayed healthy. So, in a way, Josh Hart’s growth and ability to contribute across the board might make him one of the most reliable players of the bunch. Funny how things turn out, right? It’s a testament to the unpredictable nature of player development in the NBA.
