​Forget about Lonzo Ball's rookie season, Julius Randle's impending free agency, or Kyle Kuzma's surprising start. The key to the Los Angeles Lakers returning to their "Showtime" days relies on the shoulders of Brandon Ingram.





At age 20, having one of the most historic franchises in all of sports rely on you must be tough. After all, this is just Ingram's second season in the NBA. He was a star for Coach K and the Duke Blue Devils, but now he needs to be so much more.





In his rookie season, Ingram averaged 9.4 points per contest, while shooting a lowly 40 percent from the field. The bust labels were coming, the trader rumors were swirling, and all the talk of Brandon Ingram being the next Kevin Durant was dead.





Fast forward to the 2017-18 NBA season, and Ingram is finally turning heads for all the right reasons.





When an organization like the Lakers isn't used to losing, having patience isn't in their wheelhouse. However, patience is the very reason they've been able to watch Ingram flourish this season.

Brandon Ingram a good reminder to not give up on struggling 19-year-old rookies. So much improvement over the last 12 months. — Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) December 8, 2017

Through the first 24 games this season, Ingram is averaging 16.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and shooting an improved 45 percent from the field.





While these might not be eye-popping numbers, it shows the strides he's taking as a player.





Out of all the improvements he's made, his biggest jump has been taking over in crunch time. Since Kobe Bryant retired, Los Angeles has been dying for that clutch fourth-quarter performer. If last night was any indication, Ingram very well could be that guy.

Brandon Ingram beats the Sixers! pic.twitter.com/WtPF2KLOnw — Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 8, 2017

It takes a different type of player to play for the Los Angeles Lakers. Being level-headed, having talent, and executing down the stretch might be the most important assets.





When it comes to Brandon Ingram, he's never shown any flare for the dramatics. Similar to that of a young Durant, Ingram just goes about his business.





As for talent, well that's the one thing Ingram has carried with him throughout his career. It's never been a question of how much talent does he have, but when will the Lakers start seeing it out on display?





This might not be the season the Los Angeles Lakers return back to their natural habitat, the postseason. Yet, this year could be so important if they find their true leader.





When Durant reached the playoffs, it was in his third season. Perhaps Brandon Ingram can do the same for the Lakers next season, considering he's keeping them in the hunt right now.





Patience is a virtue, and the Los Angeles Lakers might reap the benefits of it.