While he may not be a particularly flashy performer, Patrick Beverley provides a number of services on the court that have made him a valuable contributor in the NBA.
Throughout his 10-year career, which has included stints in Houston, Los Angeles, and Minnesota, Bev has made his living as a premier defensive force, often tasked with slowing down the best guards in the game.
Many times, that role had Beverley pinned against some really talented players, including Russell Westbrook. But now, Beverley will have to work with Westbrook as teammates.
During his introductory presser this week, he spoke about the transition and gave his reaction to joining Russ, who has always been considered one of Bev’s fiercest rivals.
When asked specifically about playing with Westbrook, Beverley said, “It works to have another ballhandler out there with me. … I haven’t had an explosive guard like Russ to play with defensively and offensively.”
It will be interesting to see how the two fit on the court together and even more interesting to see how they will get along behind closed doors.
For now, though, the vibes are good, and there is a sense that better days are ahead for the Purple and Gold.
Ham said he viewed the two as a great fit because of their intensity, something Beverley has brought throughout his career.
“His goal, really, hasn’t been accolades,” Ham said of Beverley. “It’s been his impact on winning basketball. And time and time again, whether it’s Houston, the Clippers, Minnesota, he’s made his presence felt in a major, major way. And we look forward to him continuing to do that here.
“I think he’s going to be a lovely addition to our ballclub and a great tone-setter. You heard him mention the grit, the grind, just being a dog out there. … I can’t wait to coach him. … I want to help him get that championship ring.”
With LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers have a core that can compete against any team in the league. When healthy, those two guys have proven they have what it takes to compete at the highest level.
You add in a rejuvenated Westbrook, and a focused Patrick Beverley to that lineup, and you’ve got one heck of a squad.
Finally, Lakers fans have a reason to be optimistic about what is to come.
