Los Angeles Lakers: Jeremy Lin is the Franchise PG

Dynamic Playmaker

Say what you will about the rest of his game, but no one in their right mind can deny Jeremy Lin’s superb work in running the pick-and-roll. Whether he’s facilitating or coming off of high screens for driving opportunities, Lin thrives in running the league’s most popular play.

For the Los Angeles Lakers, that’s a promising sign.

Los Angeles lacks star power beyond Kobe Bryant, but it has far more depth down low than it does along the perimeter. Carlos Boozer, Ed Davis and Jordan Hill have all displayed the ability to set strong screens, while Ryan Kelly and Robert Sacre have some form of potential.

Each of those players can be utilized in pick-and-roll or pick-and-pop sets with Lin.

The importance of running this play in Los Angeles is that it collapses a defense. Thus, players such as Bryant, Wesley Johnson and Nick Young will have avenues to shoot and, based on the defense’s adjustment, drive.

In an ideal world, Lin would be the catalyst.

Bryant remains the primary ball-handler—or just the primary everything—but Lin will need to take over that role at some point. Bryant is 36 years old, and should L.A. choose to re-sign Lin this summer, it’ll be investing its future in his point guard play.

Truthfully, Lin is in try-out mode. Fortunately, he has an excellent co-sign to remain in Los Angeles.

Next: The Co-Sign