Ron Artest Joins The Los Angeles Lakers

When Ron Artest and Kobe Bryant got in a verbal fight back in March, John Ireland from KCAL 9 asked Kobe what he thought of Ron Ron.  Paraphrasing Kobe’s comments, he mentioned that they are good friends and that he totally respects his game each and every night.

In July, Ron Artest signed a three deal with the Los Angeles Lakers for 18 million.  While the Lakers lost youth and talent in Trevor Ariza they did gain an experienced veteran in Ron Artest who is willing to work harder than anyone on the team to win an NBA championship.

Despite the critics who believe Trevor Ariza has more potential than Ron Artest, we can all agree that Ron Artest will be there to guard players like Lebron James and Paul Pierce.  Both are around 6’8 and outweight Kobe by 60 pounds.  Not to discredit Kobe’s defense or his strength, but there has to be a time where he is not defending the best player on the other team.

Statistically speaking, when Ron Artest is guarding Lebron James his shooting percentage drops to 44 percent from the the field, 23 percent from the three point line and little over 5 turnovers per game.  Ron’s physical style of defense makes his offensive game elevate at the same time.  If he gives the Lakers ten to fifteen points per game then we can make the statement that the Lakers have a great shot of winning the NBA championship again.

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