Lakers: Do They Have a Starting Guard in Jordan Clarkson?

Last night, the LA Defenders played against the Sioux Falls Skyforce.  Jordan Clarkson finished the game with 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists.  

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Jordan Clarkson dominated in the painted area similar to elite point guards.  He didn’t play in the post and shoot over defenders.  He didn’t back his man down all the way into the paint.  His game is very simple.  He attacked one direction, felt the contact, changed direction away from the contact, and got off great shots in the paint.

Eight of his ten field goals were all made in the paint.  They were on a variety of floaters, layups, offensive tip-ins, and pull up shots.

His height at well over 6’3″ with a 6’8″ wingspan allows him to elevate over smaller defenders for clean looks.  It’s very clear that he’s a scoring point guard.  He can execute the pick-and-roll well enough to handle the position, but loves to isolate against small guards and maximize his physical talent.

The next step for him is the jumpshot.  It’ll be easier to play him for the drive at the NBA level, especially with taller and stronger point guards in the NBA.  Still, he scored in ways that mirror Tony Parker in the paint.

He finished with 10 of 20 shooting from the field, with just three total free throws.  Getting to the free throw line was one of his strengths out of Missouri.

Defensively, his size can allow him to switch between the point guard and shooting guard positions as well.

He worked hard all summer long with a variety of games and practices.  He worked on his ball-handling, perimeter shooting, and isolation skills from the perimeter.  He was the best player for the Lakers during the Vegas Pro League as well.

The future is bright for the Lakers.  It’s easier to build the team when the team drafts well.  We’re happy to see Clarkson in a Laker uniform.

What do you think about his game?  Do you think he can be a future starter for the team?  Should the Lakers look at other positions for free agency?  Would he fit well next to Jeremy Lin?  Please leave comments below.

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