Dud on the Los Angeles Lakers: Kent Bazemore
Lake Show Life has been harping on how well forward Kent Bazemore has performed throughout the preseason, but his play on Tuesday was less than stellar. That’s okay, though. It’s not the end of the world, but it still earned him the title of being the dud from the loss to the Warriors.
Bazemore started for the Lakers and finished with six points, three rebounds and four fouls in 20 minutes of play. He shot 2-for-6 from the field and 1-for-3 from behind the arc. Kent has been the team’s leader on defense, although that isn’t saying much. That’s not a low blow at Bazemore, either. Los Angeles has simply struggled on the defensive end and it could very well be an issue that carries over into the 82-game season.
It’s impossible for a player to go out and play well every single game, but once the regular season is here the Lakers won’t be able to afford to not have Bazemore’s usual intensity. He’s been a spark that both head coach Frank Vogel and his teammates have appreciated.
If it’s not already clear, Bazemore’s play on Tuesday night isn’t a big deal. It happened during a meaningless game, but the Lakers will start to play games that matter in a mere six days. Kent was a key offseason addition, especially now considering the number of injuries that Los Angeles has suffered, and he’s going to be alright.