Anthony Brown not only got his first opportunity to start a game for the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 4 of their preseason schedule against Maccabi Haifa (Israeli Premier League), but he absolutely made the most of his 22 minutes of action. His two points on 1-of-2 shooting from the field and relatively empty box score certainly won’t impress anyone that didn’t happen to actually watch the game, but he was able to make an impression upon his coaching staff and teammates with his activity.
— What will Anthony Brown make this season? Find out here! —
Even with Kobe Bryant slated to play minutes at the small forward position, that remains the thinnest on the roster and a situation that could be tailor-made for a 6’7 three-point shooter that is willing to defend the overabundance of scoring wings in today’s game.
“I don’t try to mold my game after anyone in particular,” Brown told media members following the game. “I look at a lot of people. Danny Green is the most active player right now. Khris Middleton, but other than that, no one that I like mold myself after,” Brown concluded.
Coach Scott, in particular, praised his defensive effort and seemed to be impressed by the fact that Brown actively applied ball-pressure along the perimeter throughout his time on the floor. Kobe was very complimentary of Brown’s time on the court, specifically praising Brown’s poise and ability to play under control in such a big moment for the 23-year-old Southern California (Bellflower) native.
Brown may still have plenty of competition ahead when it comes to making the opening night roster, but it appears he could have an “inside track” if he is able to continue duplicating the type of defensive effort that raises so many eyebrows. The team has plenty of scoring options, so it should come as no surprise that a player willing to sacrifice productivity in an effort to make things difficult for opponents would have the favor of the coaching staff and veterans.
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