The Los Angeles Lakers have methodically revamped their roster heading into what general manager Rob Pelinka has called a “Lakers year”. After trading for Brook Lopez and signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, the Lakers re-signed point guard Tyler Ennis to log the back up point guard duties behind No. 2 pick Lonzo Ball.
Head coach Luke Walton was impressed with the production Ennis gave during his short stint with the Lakers last season, posting a career high in points and assists. Now Ennis gets another chance to prove himself on a minimum deal with an option for a second year.
While many anticipate change with Ball now headlining the passing offense, Ennis envisions working alongside Ball to help facilitate the basketball, via Mark Medina of the L.A. Daily News:
“With the way the league is going now, the more playmakers you have on the court at the same time is perfect,” Ennis said. “Just being able to have one of us on or both of us at certain times. It’s only going to help the team score the basketball. To have the young talent we have and two guys that can make plays for others, we’ll have some good scoring nights.”
Ennis is on the money by stating how the NBA is evolving into a more up-tempo pace, creating more scoring opportunities and thus more opportunities to create an open shot. Walton’s entire offensive system relies on a selfless style of play, working alongside one another and hoping for the best result as a team.
The 22-year-old is capable of staying on the weak side for the open three-pointer, after shooting 38.9 percent from beyond the arc. However, Ennis can also be the recipient of stellar ball rotations, which will allow him to create in pick-and-roll scenarios.
While many believe that Ball is already ahead of the curve when it comes to adjusting to the NBA, he still has a few things to learn. Ennis, Jordan Clarkson and his teammates will surely help him adjust, while also providing different focal points of attack when on the court together.