Apr 18, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Rajon Rondo (9) and Houston Rockets guard Corey Brewer (33) in game one of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Rajon Rondo
Rajon Rondo is the biggest variable of the Kings newest additions. Prior to tearing his ACL, Rondo was regarded as one of the best point guards in the NBA. Unfortunately, Rondo has yet to regain his form in the two seasons since his injury. A midseason trade to the Dallas Mavericks was expected to kickstart the point guard’s career. Unfortunately, it did the exact opposite, as poor play and multiple confrontations with head coach Rick Carlisle soiled Rondo’s reputation.
It is unclear if Rondo will supplant Darren Collison as starting point guard, but it would seem that way. Karl’s system usually has two point guards playing together, meaning Collison and Rondo could be sharing the court much of the time. It is incredibly hard to predict how Rondo will perform, but if all goes to plan the signing could reaps major benefits for the Kings and Rondo alike. Rondo holds career averages of 10 points, eight assists, and five rebounds per game. Despite his offensive deficiencies, Rondo is still a very talented playmaker and that is likely where a lot of his value will come from.
If Rondo’s play continues to decline, and he is unable to work with his coaching staff and team mates, then his production will likely reflect that. Even if relegated to a bench role, Rondo could provide playmaking off the bench. The biggest obstacle facing Rondo is his inefficiency on the offensive end. If all goes well, Rondo could produce at a level similar to his career averages. If things start going poorly, then Rondo’s production will continue to decline, which could spell the end to his career.
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