Artest, Metta World Peace, whatever he ends up being called, was part of a rumor that involved bringing Andre Iguodala to the Lakers from Philadelphia. Philly’s closer to Queensbridge than LA is, but I doubt it has the same level of reality TV show potential.
When the Lakers beat the Boston Celtics in the 2010 NBA Finals, Artest was absolutely huge. They couldn’t have won it without his lockdown defense on Paul Pierce and his timely three-pointers. This season though, he was a shell of his former self.
Artest averaged a career-low 8.5 points per game and shot an abysmal 39.7 percent from the field. He became a liability on the offensive end, unable to knock down wide-open jumpers.
In order to actually play as aggressive as Artest says he’s going to be, he'll to have to get in the gym. He must regain his quickness as well as improve that inconsistent jump shot.
If he works on his game as much as he makes the news, he’ll be fine. The problem is, you hear about Kobe and Andrew Bynum working on their games, Pau Gasol possibly playing overseas, but nothing on Artest. The order of his priorities will be revealed this season.
Until then, enjoy Mr. World Peace’s sense of humor.
David Daniels is a Featured Columnist at Bleacher Report and a Syndicated Writer. Follow him on Twitter.
Read more Los Angeles Lakers news on BleacherReport.com
...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
