When Jodie Meeks signed with the Lakers last off-season, he was expected to help add some outside shooting off what was a weak bench. Unfortunately, Meeks struggled to find his rhythm last season and averaged only 7.9 points on 38 percent shooting, both sub-par numbers for what was expected to be a breakout season.
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However, with all the injuries to the Lakers backcourt this season, Meeks has taken advantage of the opportunity coach Mike D’Antoni has given him. Following the Lakers 107-102 loss to the Sacramento Kings, Meeks talked about how his game has matured this season, via Lakers Nation Reporter Serena Winters:
Meeks: "Got some chances to play some point guard, got a chance to play a lot of minutes, so for me personally it's helping me out."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) April 3, 2014
Meeks has drastically improved his game in just one season as he is no longer just a spot-up shooter. Now averaging 15.4 points per game on a much more efficient 45 percent shooting, Meeks has developed the ability to finish at the rim and off the dribble. Meeks still maintains his three point specialty as he leads the Lakers in threes made per game at 2.1 on 39.9 percent shooting.
Meeks has definitely proved himself as a legitimate player this season as he continues to grow through his heavy minutes log. This extra court time has allowed Meeks to learn from his mistakes and grow as a player.
The Lakers are expected to go through a drastic overhaul of their roster this off-season as they have ample cap space and a high draft pick to their disposal. Meeks recently said that he hopes to return to the Lakers this off-season, but he understands this is a business:
Jodie Meeks said he wants to stay a Laker next year but it's a business & they have to see what happens w/ the draft and other free agents
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) April 3, 2014
While Meeks has improved his play this season, he is still not a quality starter on a contending team. This is not to say that he cannot contribute off the bench, but as of now, Meeks is not the Lakers answer at shooting guard. If Meeks is willing to come back at the right price, he would be a great piece for the Lakers.
Like Meeks said, a lot of decisions on free agents will be made after the upcoming draft and other free agents. While it has been a disappointing season, Meeks has shown great improvement and is a type of player the Lakers should look to re-sign this summer.
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