The Los Angeles Lakers are putting together their version of the “Expendables.” After the acquisition of the world’s greatest player in LeBron James, the signings since his arrival have been intriguing, to say the least.
President of basketball operations Magic Johnson and general manager Rob Pelinka have since added Rajon Rondo, JaVale McGee, Michael Beasley, and Lance Stephenson on one-year deals. If you were putting together a list of the most uncoachable players, most of those names would be on there, but there is a method to the madness behind bringing them in.
All have had their issues and problems in the past, however, they all possess undeniable basketball ability and hunger. Often labeled as “misfits,” they will now team up with the King in an attempt to reverse their reputation and bring all their talents together for the greater good.
Stephenson, in particular, was a bombshell signing, but since making his move to Hollywood, Stephenson has since been very active in the gym and training facilities, working on his game before the start of training camp. He looks to be in great shape, and in this recent video posted by Bleacher Report, the 27-year-old seems to already be in midseason form, destroying the opposition in a scrimmage held in LA.
Lance looks ready for Lakers season to start 👜
(via @Cbrickley603, @WeAreWaveTV) pic.twitter.com/bG6xbK5OSH
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) August 9, 2018
He and James have had their widely publicized battles and drama over the years, but that’s all about to change. Their rivalry started all the way in James’ time with the Miami Heat, where the team faced Stephenson’s Indiana Pacers deep into the postseason. Since then, the rivalry has continued to grow, and the pair most recently went head-to-head in the Eastern Conference's First Round last season.
Stephenson averaged 9.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in 22.6 minutes per game last season. He was a source of instant offense off the bench and the Lakers will look for a similar contribution from the versatile swingman.
Instead of guarding James he will likely back him up when he takes a rest, but don’t be surprised if you see both of them out there on the floor to end games, wreaking havoc on the wings on both ends.
Stephenson remains one of the most intriguing and underrated acquisitions this offseason, and it looks like he wants to be ready to prove his worth.
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