Rajon Rondo
Rajon Rondo will not play much this season, and he’s OK with that.
Here’s what he said during an ESPN interview:
"“Yes, they have talked to me about roles with this team and what they’re looking for bringing to this team this year vs. the past couple seasons… Just being ready when my number is called. Obviously, we have a lot of depth at the point guard position. Understanding that I’m not going to play as much as I would like or possibly want to, but at the same time being a mentor for young guys like (Kendrick) Nunn, helping Westbrook in any way possible, (Talen Horton-Tucker), and just doing what I do best: Being a key locker room guy.”"
Last year, Rajon Rondo, 35, struggled for the Atlanta Hawks and the Los Angeles Clippers, averaging 5 PPG, 4 APG, and 2 RPG between both clubs. Famed “Playoff Rondo” even failed to show up during last years’ playoffs.
The former Celtic’s numbers reduced across the board through 13 postseason contests with LA’s other team. Worse yet, Rondo only connected on 34 percent of his field-goal attempts, and he had a horrific 117 defensive rating.
Rajon Rondo was brought in as a protective measure, and he won’t see significant playing time unless Russell Westbrook and Kendrick Nunn both suffer injuries. Rajon Rondo will be more of a tutor than a player, which could be a huge blessing for the Lakers.
Only a handful of people in the world see the game better than Rondo, and if he’s willing to impart some of his wisdom to Westbrook, Nunn, Monk, and Horton-Tucker, the Purple and Gold will be better for it.