Thomas Robinson
A former lottery pick, draft bust and journeyman, Thomas Robinson received an invitation to training camp with nearly a 0 percent chance to be signed for the season given the logjam in Lakers’ frontcourt (including recently signed Yi Jianlian).
He unexpectedly made it through the camp and obtained a spot on the final 15-man roster with the coaching staff praising his energy, relentlessness and daily commitment.
The former Jayhawk never complained about a lack of playing time, rather cheering for is teammates from the sideline and staying mentally ready for a call to action.
He had the opportunity to showcase his qualities between December and January, when an injured Larry Nance left a vacancy at the power forward rotation, and surprised more than one person averaging 6.9 points and 7.6 rebounds per game plus shooting 66 percent from the field in nine games.
In the final stretch of the season, with the Lakers in full tanking mode, he received more playing time, scoring 9.6 points and 6.3 rebounds per game.
Robinson accepted his role with the team, whether he played or not, proved to be a positive presence in the locker room and a nice fit in Walton’s offense, acting as an energetic backup power forward and center, very active on the boards.
His constant motion made him a decent defender, though not above-average, but was a worse shot blocker than you would expect from a 6’10” athletic big man.
TR has already declared his desire to stay in L.A. and, if it was the case, he sounded willing to maintain the role he thrived in this season.