Kendall Marshall and Julius Randle to lead Laker Vegas Pro League
By Mike Garcia
Laker practices began for the Vegas Pro League team today. The roster includes key names such as Rodrique Beaubois, Julius Randle, Kendall Marshall, Jordan Clarkson, DeAndre Kane, LaQuinton Ross, Jerome Jordan, and Trey Thompkins.
The Vegas Pro League gives fellow drafted players Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson an implemented look at Laker culture. It also gives undrafted players and a few veterans a chance to shine and possibly make the Laker squad. Last year, Elias Harris made the Laker squad after a consistent effort on both ends of the floor.
DeAndre Kane is a well accomplished NCAA player from Iowa State. At 6’4″ 200lbs., he likes to play uptempo, finish at the rim, and shot over 38% behind the arc last year.
Rodrique Beaubois is a player coming off of a few injuries, but had a tremendous rookie year for Dallas. In just 12.5 minutes of play, he averaged 7.1 points per game on 51.8% shooting from the field, 40.8% behind the arc. While playing time increased throughout his career, so did in the injuries. With a great wingspan and tremendous quickness, he has a shot of making the roster as a combo guard.
Trey Thompkins was a 2nd round pick of the Clippers in 2011. He got cut in March 2013 after injury kept him off the floor. Still, the bigman has solid skills and has shown range out to 20′.
Jerome Jordan was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2011. He was later moved to the New York Knicks, but rarely got playing time. He stayed active by playing for a few international teams. Most recently, he averaged 9 points per game, 4 rebounds per game, and 1 block per game in just 18.6 minutes of play at the Italian League. His 7’5″ wingspan and 9’5″ standing reach give him a tremendous advantage over the competition. He may prove to be an excellent complementary player beside Julius Randle.
The Vegas Pro League team will be lead by assistant coach Mark Madsen.