With Steve Blake as the current backup point guard, there’s bound to be a competition for minutes. Both have played well of late, and both deserve a chance to compete for a spot behind Steve Nash.
But while each player will see the floor for the Lakers, don’t be shocked if Farmar is named the No. 2 point guard right out of the gate. He’s played solid basketball since leaving L.A., and he has higher upside than Blake both immediately and into the future.
Since his departure from Los Angeles, Farmar has seen statistical improvements across the board. In 2011-12—his last year in the NBA before heading overseas—he posted career highs in points, field-goal percentage, three-point percentage and free-throw percentage.
The year before he recorded a career-high five assists per contest, and he started 18 games along the way.
Between his time with the Nets and his stint overseas, Farmar has seen his role grow on the court. He was rarely a playmaker on past Lakers squads, but without a clear-cut sixth man in sight, the 26-year-old has a chance to make a name for himself on a new L.A. roster.
When comparing Farmar with Blake, both have the potential to be lights-out shooters. We’ve seen the two of them struggle throughout different points of their careers, but recent history has shown that they’re capable of finding a niche behind the arc.
What separates these two is athleticism and versatility. Blake’s shot will keep him relevant in Mike D’Antoni’s system, but Farmar’s ability to play quick, athletic basketball will help him thrive in an uptempo offense.
At 33 years old, Blake isn’t improving his athleticism. He has a...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
