Stock Watch: Lakers Week One

November 1, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Jodie Meeks (20) reacts after he is fouled by San Antonio Spurs during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Stock Up: Jodie Meeks

Jodie Meeks has been a nice surprise for one of the incumbents. Seen almost entirely as a three-point shooter upon his arrival in Los Angeles last season, Meeks struggled mightily one season ago. However, he’s turned it around in many ways this year. He’s knocking down 41% of his threes so far this season, shooting an impressive 8 of 13 inside the line, including a number of impressive fast break lay-ups. He started Wednesday in place of Steve Nash and led the Lakers in scoring.

As I said, the most encouraging part of Meeks’ early play is his ability to get to the rim, or at least his willingness. If I said that about Meeks last season, I’d been laughed off this website. But in honesty, he’s been one of the Lakers most surprising and consistent players, scoring in double figures all three games. I’m not sure what to expect out of Meeks in the future, but he’s seem to have embraced his role as a reserve this year. The more he accepts his role and plays within himself, the more he’ll remain productive.