Lakers: Jordan Clarkson Focused on ‘Bringing This Franchise Back to What It Was’
By Eric Yee
Lakers’ stud, Jordan Clarkson recently spoke with lifestyle blog, Hypebeast where he talked everything from fashion to what his plans are for next season
Whether you like the position that the Los Angeles Lakers are in or not, you must admit that the team has done a rather good job of helping fans find quasi-replacements for recently retired star, Kobe Bryant. From second round steals to second overall picks, the team has no shortage of personalities for any type of fan to latch onto.
The current craze definitely surrounds Larry Nance Jr and Ivica Zubac, and after his impressive Summer League performance, expectations are higher than ever for D’Angelo Russell. However, the player that often gets lost in the fray is Missouri product, Jordan Clarkson.
Appearing to know just that, the 6’4 combo guard has been working hard this summer with trainer Drew Hanlen, even reportedly hitting a 9AM workout immediately after finalizing his deal with the Lakers… and based off of his recent workout videos, I wouldn’t doubt it.
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Clarkson talked about this in an interview with Hypebeast when he was asked what he’s trying to improve on this summer,
"Just being able to do more behind the three-point line. Also getting stronger in terms of finishing at the basket with contact. A big focus for me is expanding my game and being able to go off-the-dribble more. I know we’re going to be in a more uptempo and free system. I’m just trying to prepare as much as I can for that."
Additionally, while Clarkson discussed lighter topics like his interest in fashion, his obsession with Pokemon Go, etc, he set the tone for the interview early saying that, “bringing this franchise back to what it was is important to me.”
"It really didn’t have much to do with the city and the lifestyle, even though it is a plus. I’m a big believer in the process, the struggle, and finding that light at the end of it all. I wanted to be a part of these tough times, so when we turn it around here it’s going to be a great feeling. That will be something we will always remember and will be amazing once we do."
This should be music to Luke Walton‘s ears, and based on the reports about how hard working the rest of his young core is, he should have no problem establishing the culture he intends to this upcoming season.
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The road back to the top is straight and narrow for the Los Angeles Lakers, but it seems that they have the right coach and core in place to do just that.