Chapter Forty-Six: The Spicy Basket Man

Darius Morris was one of the 41 players selected by the Lakers in the second round of the 2011 draft.

The Lakers opted for a 6-foot-4 guard primarily to fill the void left by the aging footsteps of veteran Fisher.

However, in this position, it is luck to be able to find out, and there is a high probability that it cannot be played.

In the 11-12 season, Morris's performance was not satisfactory, except for a slightly impressive debut against the Clippers, and then gradually degenerated into mediocrity as the season progressed.

He played in a total of 19 games, averaging 2.4 points per game, and basically appeared in garbage time.

Of course, Morris still has the strength, but it is difficult for a team like the Lakers to give low-pick rookies space and opportunities to play.

From Morris, Li Liang can see a little shadow of his future.

Li Liang warned himself that even if he was selected by the Lakers, his NBA career would only take a small step, and there was still a long way to go.

Now, all he's going to do is give Morris some color in a one-on-one matchup.

To be honest, Li Liang's offense with the ball is really not good, with his weight and height, even a guard like Morris can't play.

If you can't stand up to confrontation with the ball, it's impossible to play big or small in the NBA.

Just like some big tall people who can dominate the campus, if they are played against NBA players, 2 meters can't beat an ordinary person like Thomas Jr. who is 175.

Because confrontation is not a level.

Therefore, Li Liang simply played to his strengths and avoided his weaknesses, learned the lesson of the previous night's game against Morris, and did not play with the ball.

When it was Li Liang's turn, he dribbled twice on the outside and pulled out his hand directly, so that he could score two.

When it was Morris's turn to attack, Li Liang would not be polite.

After all, Morris has been in the NBA for a year, and he can't compare to those rookies who have just come out of the NCAA.

In the [Personal Training Center], Morris can play back and forth with Li Liang on offense.

It's just that in the back, Li Liang slowly figured out Morris's offensive routines and habits.

The vast majority of players, even superstars, have their own tricks on the offensive end.

In the case of zero confrontation, they are proficient in everything, and when it comes to critical moments, critical moments, they will use the way they are best at and the most accustomed to.

Morris, like many small guards who can't play in the league, has average speed, lacks one-on-one confrontation, and is not good at left-handedness.

Another characteristic of Morris is that when he does crossover, there is a more obvious swing in the shoulder, which can be used to predict his change of direction.

Li Liang's defense is not only improving his physical movement and confrontation, but also his awareness and experience, which are also expanding rapidly.

Darius Morris in reality didn't know that he had been seen through before he confronted Li Liang.

In three consecutive attacks, Morris was defended by Li Liang, and one of them was forced to cover up.

Li Liang forced Morris to go to the left side, allowing him to break through with his ungood left hand, and then adjusted the step point and directly pressed his layup.

Later, Morris had to use a jump shot to solve the problem, and it was easy to score one.

But Li Liang's defensive ability has been recognized by Ryan West.

He thought that he was not mistaken, this kid was really a good seedling in 3D.

Since the Lakers returned to the Western throne in 2008, the small forward position has been plaguing the team.

In the 08 Finals, Radmanovic played as a small forward, and was completely blown up by Paul Pierce, and Pierce won the MVP of the Finals.

Ariza in '09 and Artest in '10 gave the Lakers a taste of championships.

After 10 years, Artest's form began to decline, and in the semifinals of '11 against the Mavericks, he was shot through by Stojakovic.

12 years, that is, this year's Thunder, not to mention, was pinched in Durant's hands and played like plasticine.

Now, with James and Durant coming of age, the league has entered the era of point guards and small forwards.

The need for 3-and-D players is getting stronger, and the Lakers certainly know that.

It's just that this year they have a 60th pick, and it is impossible to pick a good 3D player.

Ryan West, with his boldness and decisiveness, picked out the hidden treasure of Li Liang.

He is now thinking about how to convince management that they are willing to pick a Chinese player who is unknown in the NCAA and has black hair and eyes in the draft.

Judging from the tone of Bass Jr. before, he is more inclined to pick an inside line with the 60th pick.

West thought it would be nice if he could get Bass Jr. to come over and watch Li Liang's tryout.

No, it doesn't necessarily work after watching the trial, maybe he will feel that Li Liang has no ability to hold the ball.

Li Liang had already ended the confrontation with Morris, the two shook hands with each other, and Morris said, "Good defense, I remember you." ”

Li Liang thought, hehe, I will forget you.

Li Liang came off the field and saw West frowning, thinking that he was not satisfied with his performance.

Li Liang said: "Ryan, that's all for today, I've already played my all." ”

Because he was very well prepared, Li Liang played 100% today, and he was very satisfied.

West stretched out his hand to shake hands with Li Liang and said, "That's right, you played very well." But I told you at noon that the decision is not mine. I'll do my best to convince the draft team though, you're going to be an absolute surprise. ”

West said this, but in his heart he was thinking, how to convince him?

The current Lakers' scouting director is Jace Buss, the youngest son of the elder Buss.

However, he has little say, and the real decision is made by his brother Jim Bass, who is often referred to as Bass Jr., and general manager Kupchak.

For Bass Jr., to be honest, he can't compare to his father in terms of looking at players.

Moreover, the elder Bass is willing to delegate power to the people below to make decisions, while the younger Bass is different, he likes to make his own decisions.

This is where the trouble lies, a leader who is not professional enough, but has a great sense of responsibility for the leader.

It's really difficult, if only there was a heavyweight who could say a few words for Li Liang.

West now regrets a little, knowing that he should have found a few authorities and team celebrities to watch the trial to make them realize the value of Li Liang.

When it comes time to persuade Bass Jr., there will be more people on West's side.

But this trick doesn't necessarily work.

The power struggle within the Lakers has been intense, and many decisions are not made for basketball reasons.

"Hey~" Thinking of this, West couldn't help but sigh.

There are so many troubles in a family business, let alone a basketball giant like the Lakers.

Li Liang looked at West's sad face, and guessed his worries, but Li Liang didn't bother to comfort him.

Instead, he said, "Mr. West, if you're not happy with my performance and can't be sure I'll be drafted with the 60th pick, then please let me know in advance so I can go to another team for a tryout." ”

"No, no, no, I'm satisfied, I'm 80 percent sure I'll pick you in the draft," West said. But... There are no absolutes. ”

Li Liangxin snorted coldly, there are no absolutes in everything, then I will definitely have to try it in other teams.

Otherwise, for the sake of a chance for the Lakers, give up the tryouts of other teams, and finally become a draft loser, it will be a big loss.

Li Liang cleaned up and was about to leave with Wei Dazhi and Zhu Shu.

There was a commotion outside, as if a lot of people were coming.

Wei Dazhi's nose is very sensitive, he smells his peers, and there are many peers, indicating that there are big events or big people.

Wei Dazhi didn't say a word, and rushed outside to check the situation.

After a few seconds, Wei Dazhi ran back and said, "That... That one... Kobe, Kobe Bryant is here! ”

Li conscience was shocked, the spicy basket man is here?