Los Angeles Lakers: 3 players who have to step up with Rajon Rondo injured

3. Lance Stephenson

When the Lakers lost two starters, Rondo and Brandon Ingram, because of the fight with the Rockets, Luke Walton had to turn elsewhere for production. He landed on Lance Stephenson, and he should once again have his number called.

Stephenson has been one of the bigger surprises for the Lakers this season. A wildcard whenever he is on the court, Stephenson has provided consistent production when given an opportunity.

He shot over 50 percent in three of the four games players were suspended for, including the 23 points, eight rebound and eight assist performance against the Phoenix Suns. In the three games without Rondo, Stephenson played at least 23 minutes.

Stephenson is a gamer and brings it everytime he steps on the court. He can bring some of the same things to the court that Rondo did, such as playmaking. Someone is going to have to help out with the ball handling and playmaking with the second unit with Rondo sidelined and Stephenson can provide that.