The Back Up Point Guard Situation
By Mike Garcia
April 17, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Kendall Marshall (12) drives to the basket during the second half against the Denver Nuggets at the Pepsi Center. The Nuggets won 118-98. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
2. The Lakers use a partially guaranteed contract for a free agent pick up. The point guard that comes to mind is Kendall Marshall. Highly lauded as a natural point guard out of The University of North Carolina, the 6’4″ point guard is familiar with the system, spending two years as a Phoenix Suns player. There, he learned the system under Alvin Gentry, one of Mike D’Antoni’s beloved assistants. There’s a large opportunity for him to work on his jumpshot past 20′. The release looks a bit unnatural and is more of a set shot, than a jumpshot. But, what he can give at the position is good energy, excellent ball-distribution, and keep team pace up. He always looks ahead for teammates, looking for easy scoring opportunities in early transition. He can execute the pick and roll, hitting the roll-man far more often than not, instead of settling for a jumpshot. He plays solid defense with decent anticipation to push out for a fast break. A 10-day contract is not available until mid-January. The Lakers would need a longer term solution, and depth is of great importance to the team. Jordan Farmar may be out for a month, but Steve Nash is also out with nerve irritation. Kobe Bryant isn’t a natural point guard. It wouldn’t hurt to give a solid young prospect, who is familiar with the system, a try.