“Lowkey spoke up” – Lonzo Ball reveals his outrage at Lakers’ ‘disrespect’ towards Julius Randle

Lonzo Ball and Julius Randle were teammates during the 2017-18 season with the LA Lakers. Ball, the No. 2 pick in the 2017 NBA draft, and Randle, the seventh pick in 2014, formed a dynamic duo on the court. However, according to a recent interview, Ball revealed that Randle was given a limited role by the Lakers coaching staff. They instructed Randle to focus on rebounding and setting screens, neglecting his full potential. Ball spoke up for his teammate, recognizing Randle as one of the team’s best players. This incident brought them closer, and Ball acknowledges the success Randle has achieved since then.

Despite the constraints placed on him, Randle still managed to excel on the court, averaging 16.1 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. Alongside players like Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram, Randle showcased his scoring prowess and became a key player for the Lakers. However, the team finished with a 35-47 record, missing out on the playoffs in the competitive Western Conference.

Randle’s time with the Lakers came to an end when the team chose to renounce his rights to sign Rajon Rondo. This move was part of the plan to lure LeBron James to Los Angeles, leading to a roster overhaul. Randle then joined the New Orleans Pelicans for the 2018-19 season, where he continued to shine on the court.

In a twist of fate, Ball missed the opportunity to reunite with Randle in New Orleans as he was traded to the Pelicans a season later. The Lakers’ new general manager, Rob Pelinka, orchestrated a blockbuster trade that sent Ball, Ingram, and Hart to the Pelicans in exchange for Anthony Davis. Randle, on the other hand, signed with the New York Knicks, carving out a successful career for himself.

Fast forward to the 2025 playoffs, Randle faced off against his former team, the Lakers, as a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves. He put up impressive numbers, averaging 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.4 assists in the series, leading his team to a 4-1 victory.

The bond between Ball and Randle remains strong, despite their paths diverging after their time together in LA. Both players have found success in their respective journeys, showcasing their talent and determination on the court. As they continue to excel in the NBA, their shared history serves as a reminder of the impact they had on each other’s careers.