Earl Clark’s three-point range a surprise
As Coach Mike D’Antoni and Pau Gasol snipe back and forth about starting, finishing and role, Earl Clark has emerged as a productive starter for the Lakers.
In 10 starts for the Lakers, Clark is averaging 10.1 points and 8.6 rebounds while shooting 57.8% from three-point range.
It’s his outside shooting that has impressed the most. On the season, he’s hit 12 of 22 (54.5%) from behind the arc. That’s quite a jump given that Clark didn’t hit a single three-pointer in either of the last two seasons.
Before coming to the Lakers, Clark shot 2-for-15 (13.3%) over three seasons in the NBA.
D’Antoni likes Clark’s athleticism, speed and ability to defend multiple positions. Any offense is a bonus, but the way Clark has stretched the floor recently, he’s filling a needed role alongside Dwight Howard.
Gasol and Howard can play together. D’Antoni hasn’t maximized their potential, but given how much slower the Lakers’ roster is in comparison to most of the league, the Clark decision makes a lot of sense.
It’s just unexpected.
ALSO:
Lakers winless on the road in January
Pau Gasol frustrated and challenged by benching
Watch Kobe Bryant suggest that if he were a PG, he’d be the best
Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.
All things Lakers, all the time.
Get all the Lakers news you need in Dan Woike's weekly newsletter.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
