Even though the Los Angeles Lakers fell in another close game to the Memphis Grizzlies, there was a major positive coming out of the game. Rookie point guard Jordan Clarkson set a new career-high with 25 points in the loss and was arguably the best player throughout most of the game.
— Think You Know Everything About Kobe Bryant? Take The Ultimate Kobe Quiz! —
Afterwards, head coach Byron Scott praised Clarkson and said that there is plenty more to come according to Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
Byron Scott wasn't surprised w/ Jordan Clarkson's performance: "I think there's a whole lot more left in that young man." (on TWC)
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) March 7, 2015
Clarkson’s career night definitely got the attention of the Grizzlies as they switched lockdown defender Tony Allen on him during the fourth quarter which Scott believes was a sign of respect from their opponents via Winters:
Byron Scott (on TWC) on MEM switching Tony Allen (one of NBAs best defenders) to guard Clarkson: "Showed a lot of respect for Jordan's game"
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) March 7, 2015
Since being inserted into the starting lineup, Clarkson has been one of the Lakers’ best players. He still has a long ways to go, but his impressive numbers against a murderer’s row of point guards is reason for optimism amongst the Lakers faithful.
Clarkson wasn’t quite ready for Allen down the stretch and had two crucial turnovers in the closing minutes. Despite that, it was still a good night overall for Clarkson and something he will surely try to build on as he heads down the stretch run of his rookie year.
[divide]Lakers Nation Best Of- Shaquille O’Neal Top 5 Lakers Moments
