There is no question the Los Angeles Lakers are struggling and team legend Magic Johnson sees one area of improvement.
Johnson spoke to ESPN Los Angeles and he talked about how the Lakers could use Pau Gasol in a way that would make him more productive. Gasol is one of the most skilled big men in the league today and that was evident in the Lakers’ two championship runs in 2009 and 2010. However, in both of those seasons Gasol was playing under the Triangle offense and it looks like that system fit the Spaniard better than most.
“When Gasol was on that (low) block, he averaged 18 points, he shot 53 percent from the field and he still is the best passing big man in the game,” Johnson said Tuesday, shortly after introducing Greinke at a news conference at Dodger Stadium. “But you have him at the free-throw line? That makes no sense. That’s not his game.
“His game is to catch it on the low block, face his man, one dribble left or right. He’s got great moves. But now all the blame is on his shoulders, like he’s not performing well? He can’t take that. That’s not who he is.
Gasol is currently sidelined due to knee tendonitis and there is no clear timetable for his return. However, even before the setback Gasol was struggling with this Mike D’Antoni offense and it seemed like he was not able to pick up his new role. The Triangle offense fit Gasol’s play and skill-set perfectly and that is what led to his effective play.
The Lakers are hoping that Gasol can return from his injury and perform well for the Lakers or else there is a chance that the seven-footer gets shipped elsewhere.
