Los Angeles Lakers: An early look at the 9-man playoff rotation

Avery Bradley

Upon signing with the Lakers, a lot of people wondered how much Avery Bradley had in the tank. In previous seasons, Bradley had looked sluggish, had put on weight and had seemed to have lost his defensive calling card.

It had seemed that the defensive stopper who was an All-Defensive team selection for the Boston Celtics was long gone and in his place, middle of the road veteran who seemed lost and in need of motivation.

When the Lakers come calling, it seems that Bradley re-found his motivation.

After losing a significant amount of weight, and regaining his focus, it seems that the Avery Bradley of old is still alive and well.

Once locked in, Bradley is a shooter’s worst nightmare. Bradley will pick you up for 94 feet. With his active hands, his toughness, and his gritty defense, he will grind you down and will get under your skin. All traits that are very useful in a playoff situation.

If Bradley can continue to play tough defense, stay in shape and work along with his teammates to build chemistry then he will an important member of the Lakers Championship run.