Lakers: 3 Things We Learned About LA After the Kings Game
By Eric Yee
The Clarkson-Russell Duo Can Work
For the first 35 or so games this season, fans were never given a clear answer about whether the duo of D’Angelo Russell and Jordan Clarkson could play together but Thursday night clearly showed that in the right environment the two could succeed.
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Clarkson struggled throughout the first three quarters but was sparked by D’Angelo Russell and company in the fourth quarter where he came to life. Finishing with 15 points on 6-of-14 shooting, Clarkson hit a variety of shots in crunch time when they were needed most.
Inside with running hooks, outside with midrange jumpers, Jordan Clarkson is proving to fans that his freshman year explosion was not just a sham.
Clarkson is more of a combo-guard than a true point guard, so having D’Angelo Russell on the floor next to him actually benefits his play. While he operates well with the ball in his hands, his improved spot up ability and midrange shot makes him the perfect counter balance and wing man for Russell.
Seeing that Clarkson is more of a slasher, using his athleticism to beat defenders off the dribble and get to the rim, the fact that Russell is finally beginning to find his range makes them even more deadly. Given more time to develop, the pairing Clarkson’s athleticism and change of pace with Russell’s basketball IQ and passing could be one that headlines the league for years to come.
Next: Brandon Bass Finally Finding His Rhythm