Jordan Clarkson looks to expand range, comfortable at two-guard

Through a dismal 2014-15 season, the brightest spot for the Lakers was the play of then-rookie guard Jordan Clarkson.

Acquired in trade with the Washington Wizards for $1.8 million in cash, the Lakers used the 46th overall pick in the 2014 NBA draft to select the Missouri guard. Through 38 games as a starter, Clarkson averaged 15.8 points, 5.0 assists and 4.2 rebounds a game, earning a spot on the NBA’s all-rookie first team.

Clarkson’s optimistic that the work he put in over the off-season will contribute to a strong sophomore campaign.

“I added a little bit more strength. Some of those shots like the three have become a lot easier,� said Clarkson at the Lakers’ annual media day Monday. “I worked on everything this summer. I was in there in the workshop chopping my game down and working it back up, trying to build a lot of confidence going into the season.�

Last year, Clarkson shot 45.8% from the field as a starter, but only 31.1% from three-point range. He’s hoping to have an expanded shooting range this coming season.

With the second overall pick in June’s draft, the Lakers selected Ohio State’s D’Angelo Russell, another ball-handling guard. Coach Byron Scott may choose to start a youthful backcourt, with Clarkson sliding over to shooting guard alongside Russell at the point and Kobe Bryant at small forward.

Clarkson said he’s happy playing wherever he can.

“The one or two I’m comfortable playing. they might even play me at the five sometimes,� he joked. “As long as I’m on the court and I can affect the game, that’s all.�

“It’s definitely a versatile backcourt. You could throw a lot of different looks at people,� continued Clarkson. “We’re definitely going to get up and down, and it’s going to be fun to watch.�

Clarkson is also hopeful Bryant remains healthy.

“He’s just a basketball expert. He’s a genius,� said Clarkson.

The hope is that both Julius Randle and Bryant will return well from last season’s leg and shoulder injuries, respectively. Along with the addition of veterans Roy Hibbert, Lou Williams and Brandon Bass, the Lakers should be better than the 21-wins they managed a year ago.

“I think we’re going to mesh well. We’ve got a lot of guys who want to learn and want to have a good season,� said Clarkson. “Last year wasn’t fun losing games, but at the same time, we did learn a lot. We worked and kept improving and that’s all we could ask for. Now, we have to put it all together during training camp.�

The Lakers started camp Tuesday in Hawaii.

Alex Shultz contributed to this report.

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