Los Angeles Lakers: What Happened to Tarik Black?

The Los Angeles Lakers got cocky last night and thought they could beat a depleted OKC team without Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. They came back to reality. Have no fear, the tank is here!

Lost in the recent 3-game winning streak is Tarik Black and his streak of DNP’s. When Byron Scott started shuffling the lineup after the All-Star break, no one could have guessed Black would be on the outside looking in.

Listed as a center at 6′ 8 1/2″ with a 7’3″ wingspan, Black plays bigger than his stature. Picked up as a steal after the Houston Rockets cleared a roster spot for Josh Smith, he’s done only good things since becoming a Laker. In post-game interviews, Black is appreciative for his opportunities and consistently cheers for his team on the sidelines.

The bigger question is who has replaced him in the lineup: Robert Sacre. A last season Mike D’Antoni favorite somehow keeps earning playing time under a new coach. A defensive drawback and an offensive liability, it does take skill to air ball 5-footers in the lane. Attend a Lakers game and hear the boos every time Sacre touches the ball.

Coach Scott wants to develop the young players by giving them playing time. Therefore Jordan Clarkson, Ryan Kelly and Ed Davis are getting minutes, but why not Black? Sacre has a team option next season, but there really is no logical reason he’ll be back. The Lakers would be smart to use that money on bringing Black back instead.

Black has Ed Davis-like energy, but in a more compact and muscular build. Teamed with Jordan Hill or Ed Davis, Black could be a defensive stopper and rebound machine if given the chance. What he gives up in size, he makes up in skill and heart. Black definitely deserves a chance to play in the Lakers final games and even start regularly.

Black is part of the future rebuilding years for the Lakers so he should be a part of the present rotation. Hopefully, Coach Scott comes to his senses soon and starts betting on Black.

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