Los Angeles Lakers: Bright Spots in a Dark Season

Nov 12, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half of a game at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans defeated the Lakers 109-102. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

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November 1, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Jordan Hill (27) shoots the basketball against Golden State Warriors center Andrew Bogut (12) during the second quarter at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

Jordan Hill

Position: Center

Age: 27

Experience: 6 Seasons

Season Averages: 20.85 PER, 30.8 MPG, 13.6 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.3 BPG

The Los Angeles Lakers shocked the basketball community when they signed Jordan Hill to a one-year deal worth $9 million. There’s a club option for a second year at the same $9 million clip, which had some calling Hill an overpaid commodity.

Out from the walking minutes cap known as Mike D’Antoni, Hill has been earning his hefty price tag.

Through eight games, Hill is averaging 13.6 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.3 blocks per game. Most importantly, he’s expanded his game with a consistent mid-range jump shot that he’s converting more efficiently with every passing game.

According to NBA.com, he’s averaging 4.3 points on a clip of 41.5 percent off of catch-and-shoot attempts.

That’s a strong mark for a true center.

Jordan’s willingness to step out for jumpers is part of what’s opened the floor for Kobe Bryant to score. His aggressiveness on the board is nothing if not a major reason L.A. isn’t being blown out every time they play.

$9 million seemed steep, but Hill is living up to it with a coach who actually lets him see the court.

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