In the Lakers’ game Sunday night against the Detroit Pistons, Hill scored a career high 24 points and grabbed a career high 17 rebounds. Hill has played well for the Lakers off the bench, but he never really got consistent minutes under Mike D’Antoni. However, the coach eventually saw just how effective the big man was and Hill responded in a big way as starter.
After the 114-99 victory over the Pistons, Hill spoke to ESPN about the added confidence to his game.
“I get more confidence every time I step on the floor,” said Hill, who washed out in New York and Houston before hitting his NBA stride with the Lakers over the past two seasons.
“We don’t have Steve Nash. We don’t have Kobe. We’ve got guys that we know have to step up. We’re banding together as a team.”
Kobe Bryant is increasing the intensity of his rehab process and he is on track to returning before the end of the calendar year. In the meantime, the Lakers are trying to stay competitive in the Western Conference playoff race and superb efforts from players like Hill will put less pressure on Bryant.
The Lakers need everyone to contribute this season especially with a fairly old roster struggling with injuries. Although no one is really expecting a deep post season run, this team has the potential to create some problems for the higher seeds.
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