Los Angeles Lakers’ Carlos Boozer Needs To Step Up His Game
Richard Mackson – USA TODAY Sports
It has only been two games, and the Los Angeles Lakers might already be in panic mode. Steve Nash is done for the season, as is rookie Julius Randle, who many thought would compete for Rookie of the Year. The team looks lifeless on both ends of the court, as they struggle to get into offensive sets while being unable to guard anyone on defense. The team is lacking playmakers without Nash and Nick Young, and Kobe Bryant does not appear to trust his teammates anymore on offense. The team needs a veteran like Carlos Boozer to step up and help the team refocus before it is too late.
Boozer had an okay first game on the offensive side of the ball, but struggled in the second game and has been non-existent on defense. One of the problems was simply not hustling, which is not acceptable for a veteran player of Boozer’s caliber. There were several occasions where he did not box out his man, easily letting the opposing team get a second chance opportunity. He has committed lazy fouls, including pushing an opponent from behind when they had a layup, creating an “and one” opportunity. Boozer may have his limitations on defense, but he needs to make sure he is playing smart and giving proper effort.
Offensively, the team needs him to score and help take the pressure off of Bryant. He had eight turnovers last game and made poor decisions when he had the ball in his hands. He has to become more consistent with his mid-range game and finish his easy opportunities. He might be one of the few players that Bryant still trusts to score, but he must prove he is still able to do so.
Boozer was amnestied during the offseason and should be playing with a chip on his shoulder to prove he is still an effective player. He needs to let his play do the talking and make sure he is helping to lead this team. He does not have the luxury of playing with teammates who can cover up his weaknesses, so he needs to take it upon himself to do all of the little things right. The Lakers desperately need someone to take a leadership role next to Bryant, and Boozer is their best option.
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