One of the biggest surprises for the Los Angeles Lakers during the forgettable 2014-15 NBA season has been the development of second-round draft pick Jordan Clarkson. No one knew what to expect from Clarkson, but he’s been nothing short of impressive since earning a starting role on the squad.
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Acquiring Clarkson in the 2014 NBA draft has proven to be one of the best moves in the last few years for the Lakers. Clarkson will be in the team’s long-term plans moving forward along with forward Julius Randle.
During his exit interview on Thursday, Clarkson said Byron Scott and Mitch Kupchak told him to work on becoming a leader. Clarkson said he’ll study Chris Paul to improve his leadership skills, via Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
Jordan Clarkson says the one person he's going to watch a lot of is Chris Paul, specifically pertaining to leadership.
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) April 16, 2015
The rookie guard will also intends to workout with Steve Nash, as well as Kobe Bryant, during the off-season, via Winters:
Jordan Clarkson says plans for this offseason include Summer League & working out with Steve Nash.
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) April 16, 2015
Clarkson may have been taken with the 46th pick overall in last year’s draft, but he played more like a lottery pick when given sufficient time on the basketball floor. Clarkson’s development during his rookie year gives the Lakers some security in the backcourt and definitely increases the chances of the team being competitive sooner rather than later.
In 59 games during his rookie season, Clarkson averaged 11.9 points, 3.5 assists and 3.2 rebounds per game. Clarkson’s stats drastically improved once he became a starter with the rookie putting up 15.8 points, 5.0 assists and 4.2 rebounds per contest. Clarkson shot well from the floor with a field-goal percent of 45.8.
The rumors have been swirling around the league about the Lakers’ intentions to pursue Rajon Rondo and Goran Dragic in free agency this summer. Los Angeles may even draft a guard if able to hold onto their top-five protected pick, but Clarkson remains in the team’s plans moving forward with the Lakers intent on keeping the 22-year-old.
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