Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated passed along the latest:
There is one player who makes sense in LA next season: Rajon Rondo. Several rival executives believe the Lakers will make a strong run at Rondo next summer, and it’s easy to see why. Rondo is young (28), plays a critical position and shares the same win-at-all-bleeping-cost attitude as Bryant.
On the surface, Los Angeles’ interest in Rondo makes sense. Both Steve Nash and Jeremy Lin come off the books in the offseason, so there is a need at that position and money available.
It’s not just about positional need, though. Rondo would thrive in a Lakers uniform and make them an instant playoff contender in a loaded Western Conference, even if they were still an additional piece or two away from challenging for any type of championship.
That attitude pairing with Kobe Bryant that Mannix mentioned is fascinating. Bryant is praised for his competitiveness all the time, which may or may not have scared away potential Lakers targets in years past, and it would be interesting to see the Black Mamba paired with someone of a similar nature.
If nothing else, Los Angeles would pick up a few additional wins during the middle of the season when the schedule drags a bit based on motivation alone.
Lakers coach Byron Scott alluded to that competitive fire in Bryant in a recent quote, via Lakers Nation:
Basketball-wise, Rondo is a pass-first point guard, while Bryant is certainly a shoot-first shooting guard. Rondo’s lightning speed helps him get out in transition and beat defenders off the dribble, which forces help to collapse. That would open Bryant ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
