Training Camp Follow-Up: Ins and Outs (Part 3)

Small Forward Small Forward is considerably less-congested than it was, say, two years ago. There are really only two players who are going to be exclusively, or almost exclusively SFs on this roster.

Vladimir Radmanovic: After burning their money for two consecutive seasons, LA wanted to make a change in their spending patterns. Instead of picking up 32+ year old players who had seen significant decline in their production, LA picked up the polar opposite. Coming off of his best all-around season, Vlad is also just 25 years old. He is the outside shooter who is proven in game situations to a level beyond any other Laker "shooter". He's not just an outside shooter, mind you. He can rebound, handle the ball, and pass fairly well. He was surprisingly effective defensively, but will never challenge for a spot on the all-defense team. Vlad should thrive in a system and a setting where he sees more open looks than anywhere else in his career. Verdict: IN

Luke Walton: Luke became a whipping boy during his second season in the NBA when he lost his shooting touch. He came back with his best all-around performance, capped off by a stunningly effective playoff series which was him average 12.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists along with 46% FG, 36% 3pt FG. Walton showed some additions to his repertoire with a short, high-arc shot, fire on the boards, and an improved outside shot. When Luke gets the opportunity to play heavy minutes, he is one of the best system players around. He is actually a threat for a triple double, but I expect him to be Vlad's primary backup.Verdict: IN

The SF Rotation
Expect some of those Shooting Guards to see time at SF. Lamar Odom, to be previewed in the next section, will also see time at SF. But this is Vladimir Radmanovic's position to have and to hold. Walton has plenty of triangle experience, and Phil Jackson loves him, so Luke will get his playing time, nonetheless.

Biggest Strengths
Outside shooting, team play. Vlad is one of the better outside shooters in the NBA. Walton showed good touch from long range last season. Walton is also an incredibly selfless player whose decision-making skills have improved each season. Similarly, Radmanovic is not a selfish player. The SF position should be exciting to watch, should be counted on for scoring punch that has been lacking at the SF spot for several years in Los Angeles.

Biggest Weaknesses
Defense. Vlad (6-10, 234) is probably a competent defender, but little more. Phil Jackson himself has said that Luke (6-8, 232) is a defensive liability. Mo Evans (6-5, 220) will play SF a bit, but he is too small to benefit from his physical nature. Odom is locked in to that PF spot for the most part so his contributions defensively at the SF spot will be minimal.

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