Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James said recently the franchise was extremely lucky to draft Talen Horton-Tucker with their 46th pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.
The Iowa State product’s role in L.A. has been steadily growing since the start of the 2020-21 season, particularly since injuries hit the reigning NBA champions last month. Horton-Tucker averaged 13.3 points per game and registered one of the highest defensive ratings on the team in the first three games following the All-Star break – prompting James to compliment his young teammate.
The 20-year-old reciprocated by praising the four-time NBA champion himself, saying his mentorship feels like a “gift.