NBA Los Angeles Lakers

Jordan Hill Signing Turning Out To Be A Win-Win For Los Angeles Lakers

Fresh Videos

By

Kirby Lee - USA TODAY Sports

Kirby Lee – USA TODAY Sports

There were many questions and concerns when the Los Angeles Lakers decided to use a large chunk of their salary cap to sign Jordan Hill to a two-year deal during the offseason. There was no doubt that he had been a productive player for them, but the dollar amount of the deal seemed a bit much, especially since the team was hoping to lure several top free agents. When it became apparent that no one was coming, the deal started to make more sense, especially since there was a team option for the second year. This means that there is a possibility that Hill’s contract will come off of the books this offseason if the Lakers choose to go a different route.

Hill has arguably been the second-best player for the Lakers so far this season. There were doubts that he would be able to play big minutes as the starting center for the team, but so far he has been able to stay relatively healthy while playing close to 30 minutes a game. He is scoring in double figures and averaging almost eight rebounds a game. His offensive game has shown a lot of improvement, especially the confidence he now has in his mid-range jump shot.

Hill was not the splashy signing that the Lakers wanted in the offseason, nor can he replace the offensive numbers that Pau Gasol was producing for the team. But he has been a consistent and reliable center, and Hill works hard on both ends of the court. He has done well with starter’s minutes and would be even more effective with more talent around him.

The deal now looks appropriate as the Lakers can simply move on if they do not choose to exercise their team option or possibly keep him for another year as he has a large expiring contract that could be attractive to other teams. He could be a strong role player on a different team, with his rebounding prowess and improving offensive game. It will be interesting to see which route the organization chooses to go in with Hill for the rest of the season and into the offseason.

Share Tweet
Trending Now on