Lakers Roster Review: Troy Murphy

Vitals

Age: 32

NBA Experience: 11 Years

Contract Status: Free agent

2011-12 Averages: 3.1 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 16.2 mpg, 45% FG, 66% FT, 41% 3PT

Hard to believe that once upon a time Troy Murphy was putting up Pau Gasol type numbers. Obviously that was a very long time ago in NBA years. During the 2011-12 season Murphy was nothing like the double-double machine he once was in the Bay. In L.A. Murphy was a role player without a true role.

In typical Mike Brown fashion Murphy’s playing time varied from game to game. One night he’d be logging 20+ minutes and the next he’d spend the evening seated with Jason Kapono for the entire game.

Aside from his inconsistent PT Murphy also found it difficult to get into any type of a rhythm. Known as a spot up three-point shooter Murphy’s stroke was off and on. He shot a respectable 41% from deep but it seemed like most of those makes were at inconsequential moments of a game. If he was lucky enough to be on the court at a crucial moment Murphy’s shot would disappear like his PT in the playoffs.

Once Jordan Hill worked his way into Coach Brown’s rotation Murphy was a forgotten man which pretty much sums up his future as a Laker. Having inked just a one-year deal it looks like the odds are long of Murphy coming back. Going forward the Lakers must become younger and more athletic. Murphy, while still a quality vet, offers no support in either category.