Can Rajon Rondo’s Arrival Propel The Los Angeles Lakers to An NBA Championship?
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After a poor first game, Los Angeles Lakers veteran Rajon Rondo redeemed himself last night. Despite only playing 29 minutes, he was a vital contributor to the Lakers’ win over the Rockets in Game 2.
Not many players can directly feature in the Playoffs with no game time over five months. But Rondo’s experience and elite mentality helped him adjust immediately. Last night’s performance was a reminder that he still has a lot left to offer.
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The Lakers were already missing Avery Bradley in the bubble, so Rondo’s injury dealt them an extra blow. But now his return has boosted the team. He is proving to be the final piece the Lakers need to fight for the title.
How has Rondo’s arrival helped the Los Angeles Lakers?
In Game 2, he finished ten points and nine assists while recording just one turnover throughout the game. He was also a menace on defense, guarding James Harden from 94 feet. During this stellar defensive display, Rondo had a game-high five steals. With +28, he had the best plus-minus on the court as well.
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His arrival meant Alex Caruso’s minutes would take a hit. And in Game 1, Rondo played 26 while Caruso dropped to just 16 minutes. But Coach Frank Vogel’s decision to not play Dwight Howard in Game 2 meant both guards got an increase in their minutes.
Caruso’s ability to play off the ball allows Rondo to thrive as the primary ball-handler and playmaker. So now the Lakers have a solid defensive guard duo running the backup unit.
During that forgetful Game 1 performance, Rondo looked to try a bit too hard. Later, Anthony Davis defended him in the post-game press conference.
Davis said, “It kind of gives Bron a break. He’s trying to make plays for others, be in attack mode and so it gives him a break with Rondo on the floor and letting Bron be that guy who can catch it and just worry about attacking.”
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That’s the best part of Rondo’s addition to the team. Aside from LeBron James, the Lakers didn’t have anyone else who could create plays. Caruso isn’t a natural playmaker, so it was a burden on LeBron.
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With the team looking more balanced now, Vogel will be hoping his players can be consistent and hopefully win the title.
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