Over the summer, the Lakers worked out Zach LaVine. In fact, he got incredible attention when he tested with a 46″ vert. Draft junkees were well aware of his athletic abilities. They were also aware of his opportunities as an NBA player; to be a facilitating point guard and to draw contact and finish in the paint.
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“@Lakers: VIDEO: This is what a 46-inch vertical looks like, courtesy of @ZachLaVine: https://t.co/RJHsSQigt6” bruhhhh
— Mase (@Mase_Based) June 25, 2014
Well, Zach LaVine used the game against the Lakers as a try out. In the past, many role players have had career games against the Lakers. Before, it could be excused as strong Laker defense. After all, why would you want the #1 or #2 options on offense to be the great scorers? You want the #4 or #5 option to beat you.
Chances are, they won’t.
However, this is a young Minnesota Timberwolves team. Offensive options aren’t as clearly established. Ricky Rubio is out with injury, but has three great finishers in Anthony Bennett, Andrew Wiggins, and Zach LaVine. This time around, Zach LaVine acted like the number one option on offense.
He destroyed the Lakers from the field.
He shot 11 of 14 from the field, hit both of his three-point attempts, and all four free throw attempts. Everything he tried, looked easily and effortless. He let the game to come to him and the basketball gods granted him his best NBA game to date.
Jeremy Lin had all sorts of trouble trying to defend him. Lin is above average in terms of height at the point guard position, just. But LaVine is clearly an elite level athlete with a smidge more height and far greater wingspan. LaVine took jumpshots out there as if Lin wasn’t even there.
In the end, the Lakers ended up with the #7 pick and used it on Julius Randle. The Lakers needed a young talent that could possibly do more than just score the basketball. Young, frontcourt help was needed, and of course at game one, he breaks his leg.
Zach LaVine has interest in being a Laker.
"“I’ve always been a Lakers fan growing up, so they’re there at the seven spot,” said LaVine. “I’ve been working so hard for this my whole life. Whatever team I go to, I’m going to go there full-hearted.” – Eric Pincus"
Maybe the timing isn’t right. Maybe the best is down the line. Maybe his future will be as a Laker down the road in a few years.
Until then, Laker fans will be patiently waiting.