This year's LA Lakers are quite a different team. Kobe is back, Boozer and Jeremy Lin were great additions, but we lost Pau Gasol in free agency. Julius Randall was a great first round pick if he can develop his jump shot to be worth while. I was really disappointed that the Lakers did not resign Jordan Farmar especially since Steve Nash is out for the season. Byron Scott is an excellent choice for head coach and he has to put in some work.
Scott's Lakers looked like they were in good shape, but could not guard the Rockets and could not make baskets. Here is my report card for the players who played for the Lakers tonight in game one:
Kobe Bryant - Played great for the few minutes he played. For as much salary as he gets, I wanted to see more.
Carlos Boozer - Played great. Little slow start, but led as a physical presence on the offensive end of the court.
Jeremy Lin - His shot was off, but did a great job taking the ball to the hoop. Unfortunately he didn't finish the play well because he forced the ball instead of shooting a floater up high.
Julius Randall - He had great moves to get to the hoop. He must improve his jump shot to be a threat. Unfortunately he was fractured his leg late in the game.
Jordan Hill - He proved to be a positive force in the game although was shoved around by Dwight Howard. I would like to see him play more in this game.
Wesley Johnson - He needs to improve in all areas to deserve more playing time.
Ronnie Price - I was excited to see him play because he plays with great intensity. He is a liability on the offensive end with so many bad passes. I don't see why he should get a contract extension past November 15th unless he is all they got.
Jordan Clarkson - His quickness was impressive, but he needs to build on his confidence.
Xavier Henry - It was surprising to see him play since his most recent injury. His shot was off and he did play timid for the few minutes he played.
Robert Sacre - I think he should get more minutes as he is the only true center the Lakers have. He played great in the few minutes he played.
Ed Davis - He was clearly the Lakers best big man tonight. He held his own against Dwight Howard and was a great rim protector on the defensive end.
Ed Davis was a bright spot in a dismal night for the Lakers. This opening night game against the Rockets looked more like a preseason, game with the different lineups Byron Scott put on the floor for the Lakers. The preseason is for experimenting with your roster, not the game one. I wish I could think that the Lakers are better and Scott is not showing his true hand, but...
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