Over the final six weeks of the season we’ll examine each player on the Lakers’ roster and discuss what their contributions will mean during the playoffs as the Lakers aim for a three-peat. We’ll cover one starter each week and then discuss the bench unit collectively. Last week we looked at the ever-controversial Ron Artest, this week we’ll focus on the veteran point guard, Derek Fisher.
Fisher is a player that some Lakers fans wish would retire so a younger, quicker point guard could step into his place. It’s no secret that keeping opposing point guards out of the paint has been a crease in the Laker’s defense for the past decade. Lakers’ point guards historically have had a hard time defending the pick and roll. Fisher’s advancing age and tired legs aren’t helping his case. Even faithful Lakers fans question Fisher’s defensive ability and whether he is worthy of starting at the one.
There is no question that opposing teams target this weakness. However, Fisher is as strong as a bull and can rough up the smaller guys when he’s able to stay in front of them. Also, when he switches on screens to guard the screener, he’s able to muscle up the larger forwards. Not too many point guards in this league have that ability.
Next: Mr. Clutch