With Low Expectations, The Lakers Aim To Surprise

Jeremy Lin

Apr 30, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets guard Jeremy Lin (7) celebrates after making a three-pointer during the fourth quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers in game five of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Richardson-USA TODAY Sports

Lin began last season on a tear  averaging 15 points a game in November before coming down with a series of injuries. Even upon his return Lin was productive, but a lingering back problem, complaints of not enough touches from Dwight Howard, and strong play from Patrick Beverly, led to Lin being benched. While he may not be worth the 15 million he’ll be making this year, he’s shown himself to be  legitimate starting NBA point guard.

Lin’s game is penetration off the pick and roll. He is a perfect complement to Kobe Bryant at this  stage of his illustrious career, and the type of guard the Lakers have been missing since Nick Van Exel‘s departure over 15 years ago.

Carlos Boozer

Even at the age of 32, Carlos Boozer is one of the NBA’s best low post scorers. If he gets 30 minutes a night he can be penciled in  15 points and 8 rebounds a night. Boozer while highly skilled is a complimentary piece, he thrives in single coverage and playing alongside elite point guards. A Bryant – Lin backcourt would divert attention away from Boozer, allowing his deliberate offensive game to be effective. Boozer’s skill in the high post would also open up room for Bryant in the post, where he might prominently this season.