Los Angeles Lakers: Ranking each role player by importance

By Jason Reed | Sep 1, 2019

ANAHEIM, CA - OCTOBER 06: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the LA Clippers defends against JaVale McGee #7 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half of a NBA preseason game at Honda Center on October 6, 2018 in Anaheim, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

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9. Jared Dudley

If you didn’t know who Jared Dudley was before the 2019 NBA Playoffs then you likely learned who he was during his feud with the Philadelphia 76ers. Dudley made a name for himself in the losing effort in that playoff series and now finds himself on an even better title-contender in the Lakers.

Unlike Daniels, Dudley will have a measurable impact on the Los Angeles Lakers, even if it is not in the score sheets. Dudley can be a mentor to Kyle Kuzma to help the forward have a breakout third season. LeBron and Davis both provide guidance as well, but Dudley is that perfect backup quarterback-like bench veteran.

In terms of his on-court presence, Dudley can be a version of what Lance Stephenson could have been for the Lakers and can be the disrupter. The guy that comes in for 10 minutes in a playoff game solely to play physical defense and get under the skin of the other team’s notable star.

But don’t let that distract you from the fact that Dudley does not offer much in terms of box score production. The 12-year vet averaged just 4.9 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in 20.7 minutes. Expect even lower number with a lower amount of minutes in LA.

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