Could Nick Young’s Absence Make Way For Ronnie Price?
By Jacob Rude
Nick Young‘s injury has left the Lakers with a back-court problem. Earlier today, we talked about Wayne Ellington as a possible beneficiary of Young’s injury. He makes sense as a natural fit, being a two-guard already.
However, another guard could make the cut in place of Young.
Early on in the first week of training camp, Price seems like one of the highlights of camp.
Both Ronnie Price and Wayne Ellington have looked sharp in scrimmages - wonder if Lin couldn't be a possiblity at 3?
— Eric Pincus (@EricPincus) October 4, 2014
Went 1 on 1 with Ronnie Price and he is a CLASS ACT!! After Kobe & Nash, he has been the talk of training camp!!
— Dave Miller (@coachdavemiller) October 3, 2014
The surprise of training camp so far? Veteran guard Ronnie Price, who Scott called a "bulldog" on defense. He's not on a guaranteed contract
— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) October 2, 2014
As a sidenote, Kobe Bryant mentioned both yesterday and today that he was impressed with Ronnie Price. Byron called him "tough as nails."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) October 1, 2014
Sounds like Ronnie Price is impressing everyone. Kobe's mentioned him the past two days & Byron said today he's "gotten my attention."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) October 2, 2014
What he has is a complete different skill set than Ellington. While Ellington is a much bigger offensive threat, Price brings it on the defensive end. Given Bryon Scott’s desire to make the Lakers a defensive-focused team, Price already has a big head start on his competitors.
On top of that, Price clearly has the endorsement of one Kobe Bryant, and we know how much weight that carries. For a Lakers team that was horrid defensively last season, keeping someone like Price would certainly not be a bad idea.
With Jordan Clarkson and Jeremy Lin already (near) guarantees on the roster, both could play as the two-guard in place of Swaggy P. Even prior to Young’s injury, most expected Clarkson to get some run at the shooting guard role, and those minutes will increase now. As for Lin, he spent a good amount of time at shooting guard last season, finishing with a 19.3 Player Efficiency Rating while playing that position.
In addition, the health of Steve Nash can clearly not be something counted upon. One misstep or twisted ankle and Nash could miss significant time, opening up even more time for Price.
All this adds to a possible playing spot for Price. However, with a full slate of pre-season games left and nearly a month before the regular season kicks off, he’ll have plenty of opportunities to prove his worth.
Who would you rather have on opening night: Ellington or Price? Let us know down below!