The Lakers would be going (to the playoffs) if they played in the East, with a 6–5 record and wins over the bottom playoff teams (Detroit, Washington, and Philadelphia). It’s not saying much, but it shows how playing defense, passing the ball, and running the floor has kept them competitive in games where the opponents always have the best one to three players on the floor.

So far this season, Ingram is scoring more points at the rim than Durant. His ability to accept or initiate contact is a huge improvement over last year, and made him as close to a go-to guy as the team has.

Speaking of comparisons, here’s another chart featuring rookie point guards:

If Ball can learn to finish at the rim by the end of the season, he’ll be okay, based on how the other two players ended their careers.