Lakers News: Thomas Bryant named to All-NBA G League First Team

While he didn’t see much playing time at the senior level, Los Angeles Lakers rookie Thomas Bryant dominated the NBA G League with the South Bay Lakers and as a result was named to the NBA G League All-First Team as well as the All-Rookie Team.

Also receiving All-NBA G League honors was Alex Caruso, who made the NBA G League Second Team. Caruso played 37 games for the Los Angeles Lakers and even started in the final seven games of the season in Lonzo Ball’s absence.

Bryant didn’t enjoy as much success as Caruso in the NBA, only appearing in 15 games, but he lit up the G League with his high energy dunks and sweet shooting stroke. In 37 games for South Bay, Bryant averaged 19.7 points per game on an incredible 36.4 percent shooting from 3-point range. Bryant also contributed 7.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.5 blocks per game.

He still has a few things to work out before he can start contributing regularly at the next level, starting with his defense, but his outside jump shot is for real. He’ll have an opportunity to show off his quick release at the 2018 NBA Summer League, where Magic Johnson said he and Josh Hart will be playing.

Bryant’s role with the team next season will largely depend on how this summer plays out, starting with the draft in June, but he could force his way into the rotation by having a strong showing in Summer League and training camp.