Odom is arguably the most talented player on the Los Angeles Lakers team other than Kobe Bryant. Drafted into the league with the fourth overall pick by the cross-town rival Clippers, Odom was expected to be that rare player who would make a huge impact in the league as Lamar was a big man who could handle the rock and pass like a guard.
Odom’s star shone brightly in his first year in the league as he was selected to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2000, averaging 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists a game. The sky appeared to be the limit for Odom to become a star and collect a shelf full of trophies and awards for his individual accomplishments.
Would Odom lead the league is scoring or rebounding? Would Odom become a perennial all-star? Could Lamar win a most valuable player award?
The 10 year career resume of Odom, however, is devoid of the individual accolades that many believed he would achieve on his way to becoming a star when he first came into the league.
While Odom has not compiled a staggering list of individual accomplishments, he is still considered by many to be one of the more talented players in the league.
For example, Lamar was invited to be a member on the United States Olympic Basketball team in 2004. Unfortunately, the United States 2004 Olympic team only won the Bronze medal and will be long remembered for being the first team made up of NBA players who failed to win the Gold medal.
Odom’s career has never fully blossomed, at least not in a way in which he was viewed as the leading man. Lamar does not get to run out onto the court and get the attention of having his name called out when the starting line-ups are announced.
Maybe Odom does not like being the center of attent...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
