Bench Production
If there is one specific category that the Lakers have dominated this season, it has been their bench. The Lakers’ bench is third in scoring in the NBA at 46.9 points per game while shooting second best at a 52.1 percent rate. Furthermore, the Lakers also have a Sixth Man of the Year candidate in Jordan Clarkson.
Although Clarkson is accustomed to his bench role, it is surprising to see how much he increases his value every time he steps on the floor. Through eight games this season, Clarkson is averaging nearly the same number of points as last year – 14.6 points – in 10 fewer minutes and has improved his efficiency – shooting 50 percent from the floor and 37 percent from deep compared to 44.5 and 32.9 percent. His effectiveness has also spearheaded his role as a leader off of the bench and this should continue to increase as Kyle Kuzma moves into the starting rotation.
Clarkson posted 19 points, four rebounds, five assists, and two steals on 50 percent shooting against the Nets. His play also spurred more production as the entire Lakers’ bench provided 39 points on 53.8 percent shooting in the win.