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Lakers 2015-16 Season Roster Grades: Larry Nance Jr.

By Advith Sarikonda

Mar 23, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Larry Nance Jr. reacts as he dunks the ball in the second half against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Suns defeated the Lakers 119-107. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 23, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Larry Nance Jr. reacts as he dunks the ball in the second half against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Suns defeated the Lakers 119-107. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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March 27, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Larry Nance Jr. (7) plays for the ball against Washington Wizards guard
March 27, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Larry Nance Jr. (7) plays for the ball against Washington Wizards guard /

A-. . PF. Los Angeles Lakers. LARRY NANCE JR.

Larry Nance Jr. gets an A- for his rookie season and deservedly so.

Though his numbers for the season (5.5 points per game and five rebounds per game) won’t blow anybody away, his value on the court goes beyond box score statistics. Nance’s mere presence allows for spacing and ensures that help defenders stay wary of his company so as to not get posterized. Just ask Warriors backup center Festus Ezeli, the victim of one of several Nance posters throughout the past year.

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Source: TWC Sportsnet /

Expectations were certainly tempered coming into the season regarding Nance as he wasn’t expected to be much of a contributor. He proved those doubters wrong in a major way throughout the year and proved to be a valuable commodity in Los Angeles.

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Originally perceived to be a waste of a draft pick, Larry Nance Jr.has emerged as arguably the season’s biggest surprise. His versatility and consistent effort not only earned him a fan favorite status among fans, but they also garnered him a starting spot early on in the regular season. Likewise, Nance’s maturity and effervescent personality should result in him being a Laker for years to come.

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