NBA teams value efficiency. It’s not complicated – if your shot goes in more often, that’s better than if it doesn’t. Basketball is simple, right?
Well, it’s a bit more complicated than that. Yes, efficiency is important. At the same time, the ability to get a bucket shouldn’t be overlooked.
Throughout NBA history, we’ve seen players who might miss five shots in a row, only to suddenly hit the most difficult shot that you’ve ever seen. Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz has been one of those players.
His efficiency comes and goes, but this is a dynamic offensive player. Clarkson has come a long way since he started his career with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Could the Lakers reunite with him?
NBA Trade Proposal: Los Angeles Lakers Land Utah Jazz’s Jordan Clarkson
Utah Jazz Receive: F Rui Hachimura, G Gabe Vincent
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Jordan Clarkson
On the other hand, some will suggest that players like Clarkson are a dying breed. They’ll say that the league is leaving them behind. Soon, starting off-guards around the NBA will largely be 3-and-D specialists.
We’re not so sure. Inefficient volume scorers are indeed declining in value. Teams are less inclined to build their roster around scorers. A dynamic playmaker who can create shots for himself and others is usually a better option.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
At the same time, there will always be a place for scorers in this league. If you can get a bucket against the best defenders in the world, you’ll play in the NBA.
Clarkson can still get a bucket – should the Jazz give him up?
Why The Utah Jazz Do The Deal
Regardless of Clarkson’s value, the Jazz don’t need him. They’re among the worst teams in the NBA. It’s time for Utah to rebuild. According to rumors, Clarkson is available.
Some will suggest that they don’t need Hachimura either. To be sure, this team has plenty of frontcourt depth. On the other hand, it’s also been rumoured that the Jazz aren’t happy with John Collins’ performance. Hachimura could be his replacement.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
After all, he’s developed into a solid, high-energy defender. Hachimura can occasionally create his shot as well. At 25, he’s also young enough to be part of this team’s future.
Should the Lakers remove him from theirs?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
The Lakers won’t be building their team around Clarkson. They’ve got their dynamic playmaker. Clarkson ought to thrive alongside LeBron James.
Meanwhile, James could use a player like Clarkson. It’s worth noting that his playmaking chops have developed in recent years. Clarkson can handle the ball and pass. He can run this offense for stretches, and defer to James when they’re sharing the floor.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
He can also still, if he hadn’t mentioned, go out and get a bucket. Clarkson is a more talented scorer than D’Angelo Russell, so he’ll give this team a new wrinkle. If his efficiency spikes, he should help them contend for an NBA championship.
