Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who's entering his second year with the Los Angeles Lakers, looks like a new player according to Magic Johnson.
As reported by Mike Trudell, Caldwell-Pope's improvement had a lot to do with a new diet.
Magic said KCP looks like a “total different guy,” and part of that has to do with nutrition. Said Pelinka discussed it with him this offseason. Added that he’s been playing like it, too, of late.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) September 20, 2018
In last year's offseason, Caldwell-Pope signed a one-year deal with the Lakers. And in his first year, he was inserted into the starting line up. In 74 games, he averaged 13.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. His stellar play triggered the Lakers to sign him for one more year worth $12 million.
On signing Caldwell-Pope, Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka praised the 25-year-old for being a “true” two-way player, noting that it is imperative for the team's DNA. Per NBA.com:
“We are excited to bring KCP back,” said Pelinka. “He is a true ‘two-way’ player, which is very important for our team DNA. We think he will multiply his successes from last year as we move forward with roster continuity.”
In this year's offseason, Caldwell-Pope revealed that he's been working on his 3-point shot. Although he did shoot at a respectable 38.3 percent from downtown (his career best), he believes that there is a lot of room left to improve. This skill might come in useful as he'll now be teammates with LeBron James — who has a knack for finding open teammates camping behind the arc. Per Spectrum Sportsnet, Caldwell-Pope said:
“Just staying in the gym and keep working on it, trying to be better than 38 percent. That’s what I’ve been telling myself, and I’ve been telling my coaches I’m trying to be better than last year. So that’s what I’ve been working on.”
This will be a big year for both the Lakers and Caldwell-Pope.
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