2. His athleticism
I know I’m sounding like a broken record, but here’s yet another area in which KCP may not be elite, but is solid and somewhat above average in.
He has good hops, which not only helps him knock down 3-point shots when a defender is closing out on him but also allows him to throw it down in transition.
This Lakers team, as presently constituted, is full of key players who are most effective in an uptempo, open court game: LeBron James, Davis, Kyle Kuzma, JaVale McGee, Avery Bradley and KCP. New head coach Frank Vogel said, at least tacitly, in his opening press conference that he wants to push the pace, which will surely help the former Detroit Piston.
His hops, quickness and overall athleticism is surely another reason why he’s a solid defensive player. Lateral quickness is a prerequisite for being a productive perimeter defender, and KCP possesses that in ample amounts.