Kyle Kuzma Reportedly Expected to Make Season Debut for Lakers on Friday vs Mavericks

The Los Angeles Lakers are officially almost back to full strength.

According to NBA insider Shams Charania, young stud Kyle Kuzma, who's been out with a stress reaction in his foot, is slated to make his season debut on Friday against the Dallas Mavericks.

Lakers forward Kyle Kuzma will make his season debut on Friday against the Mavericks in Dallas, league sources tell @TheAthleticNBA @Stadium. Positive sign, as Kuzma will be eased back into Lakers rotation.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 30, 2019

And it looks like we have confirmation from Kuz himself, who seems to be amped to get back on the court since practicing with Team USA basketball over the summer.

Mood. https://t.co/DXFRk4K22D
— kuz (@kylekuzma) October 30, 2019

To the delight of Lakers fans everywhere, this will more than likely mean fewer minutes for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who's been an absolute disaster to start off the season. Sure, Kuzma will surely be eased into action given the concerns surrounding his injury, but every moment he's on the floor will be an exponential upgrade over KCP.

The 24-year-old Kuzma averaged 18.7 points. 5.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists last year, which was his second NBA season. Expectations are now higher considering the Lakers have an all-around new-look squad, but fans are mostly excited to see what he can do alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.