Jan 16, 2015; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Jordan Hill (27) is fouled while shooting the ball by Utah Jazz forward
Derrick Favors(15) during the first quarter at EnergySolutions Arena. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports
2. Jordan Hill
Hill signed a two year, 18 million dollar contract before the season, and I was a bit shocked. Although Hill had shown that his energy and offensive rebounding were game changing, it did not seem as if he should be making about as much money as Tim Duncan. I wish the Lakers would have inked him long term. Hill went from being an energy player, to a very versatile offensive player, whose mid range jumper cannot be left un-contested.
When Hill first played for the Lakers, shooting was his biggest weakness, and he has turned it into one of his biggest strengths. Seven of Kobe’s career high 17 assists against the Cavs went to Jordan Hill, many of which were on jump-shots.
What makes Hill the second best player on the team is his exceptional two way play. Look at guys like Nick Young and Ed Davis. Young being a horrible defender, and Davis having very limited offensive skill. Hill on the other hand cannot only post up and shoot the mid range, but is also a solid post defender and rebounder. Although Hill will not be the number one option with Kobe out, there is no doubt that he is the best overall player on the Lakers team.
Next: 1. Kobe Bryant