NBA: 10 Early-Season Storylines To Keep An Eye On

May 26, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) reacts after being called for an offensive foul against the Golden State Warriors in the fourth quarter in game five of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Thunder 120-111. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 1, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Julius Randle (30) goes up for a shot against Indiana Pacers forward Thaddeus Young (21) in the first quarter at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

7. Julius Randle is the Lakers’ best player!

Randle has been a force in the first handful of games for the Lakers. Many expected this to be the year D’Angelo Russell would assume control of the franchise, now free from the shackles of Byron Scott.

Russell showed flashes of elite pick-and-roll play last season, but has struggled early this year with his shot. You could make reasonable arguments that he or Jordan Clarkson have been more important to the team’s success. Clarkson does well to get into the lane but continues to struggle with thinking on the fly.

The point guard tends to get tunnel vision when penetrating, not focusing on how he is bending the opposing defense in the process.

On the other hand, this has perhaps been Julius Randle’s greatest skill so far this season. Randle has effectively found teammates on cuts and pin-down shots while operating in the high post. His vision thus far has been reminiscent of a young Blake Griffin.

Additionally, Randle has had a great touch around the rim thus far, shooting over 60 percent from the field through five games. These are all great signs for a player who has struggled to find an NBA footing after breaking his leg only minutes into his rookie campaign. Should he stay healthy, expect huge growth from Randle this season.

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