The Los Angeles Lakers are entering the 2021-22 season with a crowded guard rotation, and Rajon Rondo is one who will be affected by it.
Los Angeles signed Rondo to a one-year deal for the minimum late in free agency after the Memphis Grizzlies bought out his contract.
He filled the hole of the third point guard the team was looking for, standing behind Russell Westbrook and Kendrick Nunn on the depth chart.
Even Talen Horton-Tucker could get reps as the primary ball-handler since L.A. hopes he takes another developmental leap this year, so where Rondo fits in the guard equation was uncertain.
However, on Spectrum SportsNet’s “Lakeshow” podcast, head coach Frank Vogel provided some clarity on what Rondo’s minutes will look like:
“I don’t know who’s going to pick up the slack Dudz brought to the table. … But internally, we’ve got some guys. … I think Rondo coming back can be a real positive voice from a guy who’s not going to play as much, but can really impact our team with his leadership.”
Vogel mentioned Rondo can replace the leadership Jared Dudley, who went to the Dallas Mavericks as an assistant coach, brought to the team.
Rondo had some promising moments in the regular season last year with the L.A. Clippers, but he didn’t translate those performances in the playoffs.
However, the Lakers know just how important Rondo can be as a facilitator in key moments as the 35-year-old played a crucial role in the team’s 2019-20 championship run. Even if Rondo doesn’t feature often, he’ll be a good depth piece, and he’ll make his presence known in some fashion.
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