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Los Angeles Lakers: Top 10 Free Agency Options

By Maxwell Ogden

Apr 27, 2015; Portland, OR, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) posts up against Portland Trail Blazers forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) during the first quarter in game four of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at the Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 27, 2015; Portland, OR, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol (33) posts up against Portland Trail Blazers forward LaMarcus Aldridge (12) during the first quarter in game four of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at the Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 8, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Eric Bledsoe (2) guards Dallas Mavericks guard Rajon Rondo (9) during the second quarter at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 8, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Eric Bledsoe (2) guards Dallas Mavericks guard Rajon Rondo (9) during the second quarter at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Rajon Rondo, UFA

Position: Point Guard

Age: 29

Experience: 9th Season

Slash Line: .426/.314/.397

Season Averages: 29.7 MPG, 8.9 PPG, 7.9 APG, 5.5 RPG, 1.3 SPG

One of the most compelling storylines to watch during the 2015 NBA offseason will be the development of Rajon Rondo’s market value. After a tumultuous ride with the well-liked Rick Carlisle and the Dallas Mavericks, Rondo’s character concerns have increased.

If any player can help channel Rondo’s energy to improving the weaknesses in his game—specifically his jumper—it’s friend and legend Kobe Bryant.

Rondo’s passion for the game is rarely questioned, but his shooting has become more than a red flag. He converted just 39.7 percent of his free throws in 2014-15 and made just 42.6 percent of his field goals.

Yes, 39.7 percent of his free throws.

Fortunately, Rondo and Bryant have a mutual respect that could push one another to the promise land. Per Baxter Holmes of ESPN Los Angeles:

"“No way,” Bryant told the Boston Herald in Wednesday’s editions. “I’m not done [recruiting Rondo]. I’m not stopping until he signs an extension.”"

Rondo didn’t sign an extension. Thus, it stands to reason that Bryant isn’t done recruiting him.

Assuming Bryant would be willing to concede the ball-handling duties, Rondo would be an excellent fit in Los Angeles. He’d make life easier offensively as an all-time facilitator who can set Bryant up for slashing and shooting opportunities, and help develop Julius Randle on the pick-and-roll.

There is undeniable risk involved, but if any player can help Rondo right the ship, it’s Bryant.

Next: Developing the Future

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