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Kyle Kuzma on Lakers getting third star: ‘I believe that I am capable of being that superstar’

Los Angeles Lakers v LA Clippers

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 06: (L-R) Kyle Kuzma, Anthony Davis and LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers talk before a game between the Lakers and the LA Clippers during the 2019 NBA Summer League at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 6, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

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The Lakers’ two superstars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, give them a chance to compete right now.

But most recent NBA champions have had at least three stars. It’s probably only a matter of time until one of the several two-star team adds a third star and gains an upper hand in the championship chase.

Could that be the Lakers by developing from within?

Kyle Kuzma, via Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPN:

“I don’t feel no pressure, but I believe that I am capable of being that superstar,” Kuzma told ESPN. “I put a lot of work in. My progress through my journey shows that I can be there. I developed every single year, dating back to college, and I don’t see that development stunting at all.”

Of course, Kuzma believes in himself. He has made it so far. His confidence has been a big part of his journey.

But he must develop a lot to become a star. A lot.

His game also needs a ton of adjustments for him to become a “third” star. He doesn’t have the complementary skills – defense, passing, etc. – to complement other stars. His specialty is scoring, the most-traditional star skill.

Davis might be best-suited to be the “third” star. He has an all-around game and limitations with his individual scoring. But good luck convincing him to take a backseat to Kyle Kuzma.

It’d be great for Kuzma to take that next step. But it’s much easier said than done.