The Los Angeles Lakers run of acquiring players keeps on continuing as they acquire yet another veteran. They have successfully completed the signing of Rajon Rondo.
There was no shortage of questions in his press conference. However, the standpoint was where he spoke about his role on his return with the Lakers. And he is looking forward to prove arch rivals Clippers wrong for not including him in their rotations.
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Rajon Rondo as confident as ever
Rondo met up with the media with his signing being made official by the Lakers. The 35 YO point guard’s attitude remains as solid as ever returning to the team. Moreover, he is determined to get back at the Clippers for not giving him the minutes in the post season.
"I don’t think my game's declined. You’re only as good as your coach believes in you. Going forward this year, I understand where I am in my career, but I believe I can still bring a lot to the game."
Rajon Rondo on playing at '20 playoff level after down playoffs with Clippers. pic.twitter.com/AxarsF89AI
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) August 31, 2021
When asked about how confident he is in replicating his last playoff performance for the Lakers, Rondo was full of belief. He has no doubt that he can still be effective for the team. While he accepts where he is in his career, his resolve to make an impact remains the same.
Rondo said: “I don’t think my game’s declined. You’re only as good as your coach believes in you. Going forward this year, I understand where I am in my career, but I believe I can still bring a lot to the game.”
He did not have a great post season with the Clippers, mainly due to lack of minutes. But, with the Lakers, it was a completely different story. Rondo put up 9 points and 6 assist in just 24 minutes in the 2020 Lakers championship win. Hence, there is no question that he is still a productive guard with great vision.
How do the Lakers look now?
The Los Angeles Lakers have great depth because of all their signings. While most players may be veterans, that does not take away from their ability to take basketball. With the signing on Rondo, there is a great increase in a few aspects of their game.
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The main benefit is they have a playoff experience point guard who excels in pressure. Rondo knows how to keep the offence going and has quite the eye for a pass. He has also been to several finals and can deal with the playoff atmosphere.
Rondo will also play a key role with his leadership. He has always been a great floor general, but his voice from the bench will play a big role as well. Like LeBron, he reads the game really well. While Rondo has not made his name as a shooter, he has certainly improved with time. He shot almost 40% from deep last season, hence also adding a perimeter threat.
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What do you think about the Lakers’ recent signing? Let us know in the comments below.
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