Grading The Lakers So Far This Season
By Blair Hicks
Steve Blake
Nov 15, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Steve Blake (5) steals the ball from Memphis Grizzlies forward Quincy Pondexter (20) during the fourth quarter at Staples Center. The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 89-86. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Grade: B
Blake is having the best season of his career and that is a testament to his savvy, grit, and D’Antoni’s system. He began the season as a fill in at shooting guard and at times was overmatched. Since moving to starting point guard after Steve Nash’s injury, he’s been excellent.Blake is on fire from downtown hitting at a .429% clip. His passing has continually gotten good looks for his teammates. Defensively he has been serviceable except against the very best point guards.He’s averaging 10 points and 7.7 assists in 31 minutes a game.Unfortunately, Blake isn’t much of a threat inside the 3 point line. He doesn’t look to penetrate the paint or attempt to score at the rim. In a season of uncertainty, Blake’s effort every night is something to count on.