Someone is going to have to fill Justin Harper’s shoes on the D-Fenders as Harper is now playing for the Detroit Pistons, not the LA Lakers.
Former D-Fender forward, Justin Harper, was recently called up to the NBA by Stan Van Gundy and the Detroit Pistons.
Harpers’ value has been present throughout the season, even playing in the D-League All-star game, which makes his current 10-day contract no surprise to those who follow the D-League. Seeing how, the Pistons have suffered from injuries of late, specifically to Stanley Johnson, the move makes even more sense.
The goal of all D-League coaches should be to get his or her players to the next level and Harper’s D-Fenders coach, Casey Owens, is content that he did just that.
“I’m elated for Harper; that’s what the D-League is about. I wish we could lose all these guys to the NBA, I really do.”
He continued,
"But you know, we are all prepared for it, the next guy comes in, stands up and you know Justin Hawkins started in Harper’s place and scored 43 points and 11 rebounds, so we didn’t miss a beat as far as that’s concerned and hopefully we have this problem more and more. I want these guys out of here!"
Who wouldn’t want a coach who cares that much?
It is heartening to see this team and just how cohesive they are and how selfless they play for a coach that actually cares about them. Perhaps, the Lakers should take notes.
Owens explained what it means to him personally, saying,
"I’m proud, lots of pride. To see a guy come and turn down so much money overseas, and take very low pay in the D-League. It doesn’t pay well, to see a guy put in the work and be rewarded for it; that’s why I do it."
The team has not forgotten Harper, as they frequently check in to see how he’s fairing in the big leagues.
“I have to check to see if he played tonight in Detroit, we follow him closely, that’s just what’s good about this league, it gives these guys a shot to get that pro contract,” said Owens.
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Vander Blue and Josh Magette spoke to us after the win against the Stampede on Saturday night, and Blue stated, “I’m happy. Not a better person to get it, I’m glad it came from our camp, I’m his friend, I wish him luck.”
Magette voiced similar sentiments, “It takes a little getting used to, that’s the thing about this league it’s the next man up, everybody is super pumped about Harp, and we have been talking to him after his games and stuff, but it’s definitely a little different.”
A good different. We wish Harper lots of luck in the NBA! He is worthy of all his coaches and former teammates praises, he truly earned this.
Next: Lakers Laying the Foundation: Jabari Brown
Who will be called up next and will they be promoted to the Lakers this time? Only time will tell.