Los Angeles Lakers: Building the all-time underappreciated team
By Jason Elbaum
Small Forward: Rick Fox (Laker from 1997-2004)
Rick Fox began his career after being drafted by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 1991 NBA Draft but signed with the Lakers as a free agent in 1997. His steady offensive production and defensive hustle were key to the Lakers three-peat from 1999-2002, as Fox appeared in all 82 games in each of those seasons.
He accepted a reduced role with the Lakers compared to his time with the Celtics, but served as a mentor to a still-developing Kobe Bryant and young forward Devean George. Fox shot a respectable 45% from the field for his career, and this consistent shooting was important for the Lakers during their title runs of the early 2000s.
Fox demonstrated his value in tough playoff matchups up with Lakers Western Conference rivals Sacramento Kings and Portland Trail Blazers. He would be tasked with having to guard talented small forwards such as Peja Stojakovic, Scottie Pippen, and Bonzi Wells. Fox earned his role as the enforcer of the Lakers defense, making it difficult for these players to find their rhythm.
After his basketball career, Fox pursued a fairly successful career in acting, appearing in successful TV shows such as Oz and One Tree Hill. He continues to appear on sports talk shows to discuss his investments in E-Sports and the current state of the Lakers.