Up to this point, Odom is averaging a career low 7.7 points per game and playing only 21 minutes per game.
With Odom, it's not about statistics; he has had good years with the Clippers and Heat statistically. None of those year's produced any substance. The Heat were building something in his one year in Miami, but that was broken up to acquire Shaquille O'Neal.
Even then, Odom had Dwyane Wade to support him. He isn't finding that same camaraderie with Dirk Nowitzki.
Odom likes being a part of a solid team, he has the perfect second fiddle personality. Although he has the talent to lead a team, he is far more comfortable in a support role.
For Odom, his role specification needs go even deeper. He wants to be in familiar surroundings with a big brother type. When he hasn't had that influence, he isn't happy.
He isn't comfortable, so he hasn't produced for the Mavericks. Odom will be a free agent at the end of this season, and it would be in his best interest to return to the Lakers. That is, of course, if they will have him.
As a Laker, Odom averaged 14 points and 9.4 rebounds per game in seven seasons. The Lakers won two championships in that time as well.
I can certainly see Kobe Bryant making a push to bring his friend and former teammate back.
Odom's feelings were bruised when he was traded to the Mavericks for a trade exception, but I believe all could be forgiven and a reunion could help him and the Lakers.
Odom could rejoin Bryant, and add quality depth for the Lakers at the forward position. He doesn't threaten any plan the Lakers may have for 2012. We know he fits in with Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol and Bryant, but he also fits with Dwight Howard if the Lakers can lure him.
Coming off his bad season, his valu...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
