So wait, the Odom conundrum of inconsistency has finally been semi-solved and we’re going to reward the guy by giving him a starting role on the bench? Essentially, yes. It’s the way the Lakers have done it for the past two seasons, hanging up two back-to-back championship banners in the process. If it’s not broke, why fix it?
This is in no way diminishing Odom’s value as a starter, his contributions so far to start the season have been vital to the team’s success, but what Bynum brings to the starting unit creates a much bigger impact. More importantly it creates a much bigger headache and match up nightmare for the opposition.
Pau Gasol is the poster boy for finesse and headiness while Bynum (when healthy) is a tower of strength, a force to be reckoned with and the last line of defense against pesky guards trying to score or make plays for others in the paint at will. Together they form one of the toughest frontcourts in all of basketball, the perfect combination of brain and brawn that few teams can ever dream to emulate, let alone match-up against.
Not only do the Lakers bolster their starting five with size and strength, now add a player with a unique skill set in Odom to an already amped up second unit and you’ve got the most complete team in the NBA.