Can Malik Monk Be The Difference Maker The Lakers Need?

Malik Monk, in just a few years has gone from playing high school ball in Smallville, Bentonville, Arkansas to playing on the biggest stage for the most scrutinized team, the Los Angeles Lakers. In fact, two of the best players to come out of the state of Arkansas in the past decade played against each other the other night. Moses Moody is from Little Rock and currently a rookie guard for the Golden State Warriors. Both of these young men could help their franchises continue to win championships for years to come. What sets Malik apart from Moses at this point in his career, is his speed and ball handling ability which was on display against the Warrior’s last night.

The Real Lakers Point Guard

While Malik was playing point guard he had two incredible assists to LeBron James. One of them was an NBA Jam like alley-oop dunk by James. Can Malik become the new Rondo this Laker team needs? Can Malik somehow create a balance with Westbrook on one wing and LeBron on the other? The Lakers still have time to make the playoffs this year, however time is running out. Can Russell Westbrook finally learn his niche on the team? Russell has cost the Lakers several wins this year because of his erratic play. No one can question his grit, but a lot of people are questioning his decision making while dribbling the basketball. Now is the time for Malik Monk to display his basketball intelligence or lack thereof.

Now is the time for Malik Monk to certify himself as a new leader for the LA Lakers for years to come and hopefully be the new Derek Fisher. Who, by the way, is another point guard from Arkansas. I sure hope Malik capitalizes on this once in a lifetime opportunity. Monk is the point guard for the LA Lakers and he has the greatest athlete of all time on his team to pass to. I know the Lakers are old and injury prone, but Malik can be the youthful spark this team of old geezers needs to help push them back to the NBA Finals.