The lockout already assured us this NBA season was going to be strange. The way the season has unfolded for Devin Ebanks proves that.
Ebanks, a former second round pick in his second year playing for his second NBA head coach, began the year as a starter. After only getting a few starts Devin was sent back to the bench…to the very end of it. After racking up DNP-CDs at Vujacic-esque rate Ebanks was sent down to the D-League. He bounced back only to later find himself a starter again once Kobe Bryant’s shin flared up.
Then Sunday happened.
With the Lakers engaged in their last playoff tune-up against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Ebanks got yet another opportunity.
By now you know all about Metta World Peace dropping the hammer on James Harden. You probably also know Ebanks stepped in, helping the Lakers erase a 17-point fourth quarter deficit and ultimately winning in a double OT thriller.
What we don’t yet know is how long the Lakers will be without World Peace. Much of the speculation pegs his penance being a suspension from the entire first round. If that’s the case then Devin Ebanks better be ready for his close-up.
No matter what, we already know the Lake Show will be minus Metta for some period of time. That means Devin the Dude will be taking on an expanded role…again. His length and athleticism gave Kevin Durant some trouble on Sunday so defense will be a high priority for Ebanks. Anything he contributes on offense is welcome especially knocking down open jumpers to keep the opposition honest. Above all else he just needs to be active.
Mike Brown showed his faith in Jordan Hill and Ebanks on Sunday. That faith was rewarded with some crucial moments in a drama-filled contest. That was a gamble on Brown’s behalf but it now becomes necessary. It remains to be seen what Hill’s role will be going forward. Yet we know Ebanks will be much more involved. So here’s Devin’s chance to become the next Trevor Ariza.