Two of the Lakers’ primary faults were their lack of motivation and their old age, which dramatically hindered their success.
The terrifying nightmare ended when the Lakers were embarrassingly swept by the Dallas Mavericks in the second round and fans and analysts realized that it was time for the Lakers to make a change.
The organization has already hired a new coach, Mike Brown. However, the Lakers must realize that their problems transcend hired leadership and must infuse younger energy into the lineup.
Devin Ebanks is just one player on the Lakers’ roster who can help pave the way for the organization’s future.
In the 2010-2011 season, Ebanks played in only 20 games, averaging less than six minutes during each outing and most of those minutes came during garbage time.
However, during that small amount of playing time Ebanks it was clear that the young player possessed athleticism, energy and a desire to be on the court. That’s exactly what the Lakers need more of.
At 6’9” and 215 lbs, Ebanks was an exceptional small forward for the West Virginia Mountaineers. He could score, but he could also rebound, averaging eight per game. In addition, Ebanks had drive as well as the confidence to defend both smaller players and bigger post players.
Ebanks can easily translate that skill set to be what the Lakers desperately need with the help of aging forwards, Lamar Odom and Ron Artest, both of whom Ebanks has a good relationship with. They can mentor Ebanks and teach him the intricacies of the NBA game.
Questions have arisen about Ebanks’ ability to shoot the ball. While those questions are valid, there is no ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
