/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59181273/usa_today_10649980.0.jpg)
Kyle Kuzma continues to build on his impressive rookie year resume after breaking into an elite club on Monday. With 1,126 total points so far this season, Kuzma is now in the Lakers’ top-five all-time rookie scoring list, per Lakers media relations. Magic Johnson was the last to do this in 1980.
Upon hearing the news, Kuzma couldn’t help but take a moment to flex on Twitter and call out his doubters.
Funny how that works right? https://t.co/eZCEKZ4TDF
— kuz (@kylekuzma) March 27, 2018
Unreal list of names wow. https://t.co/pn6H0Ucsxt
— kuz (@kylekuzma) March 27, 2018
Selected with the No. 27 pick in 2017, Kuzma has shattered even the loftiest of expectations for him leading up to the draft. Not only is he cementing his name in Lakers history, but he’s doing things few rookies in NBA history have done.
Earlier this month, Kuzma became the first rookie ever to put up at least 1000 points, 400 rebounds and 130 three-pointers. Additionally, Kuzma is one of six players to record at least 1000 points, 400 rebounds and 130 three-pointers this season, including Paul George, LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Durant and Dario Saric.
If this is his first season, just imagine the kind of career he has the potential to have.
Unfortunately, Kuzma won’t go higher than five on the all-time Lakers rookie scoring list unless he goes full on 2007 Kobe Bryant and average 60 points over the last handful of games. I wouldn’t count on it.
Regardless, Kuzma has been the Lakers’ most impressive rookie in a years and if he continues to progress at this rate, it’s only a matter of time before he starts breaking into bigger all-time scoring lists.