Courtesy: ABC News
Former Sixth Man of the Year, Lamar Odom is currently a free agent coming off two of his worst years of his career. It seems like it has been ages since the Odom name was relevant. Today, unfortunately, when people think of Lamar Odom, they immediately think of Khloe Kardashian. Along with Kardashian, fans think of how awful Lamar has played, since being traded to the Mavericks from the Los Angeles Lakers.
Two years ago, the Lakers traded Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom in a three way trade sending all-star point guard Chris Paul to Los Angeles. This deal seemed completed until commissioner, David Stern, vetoed the trade for reasons beyond explanation. As soon as Odom found out about the trade, he felt disrespected and betrayed. Odom immediately requested a trade from LA and was sent to the Dallas Mavericks for only a first round pick. This deal was a real head scratcher since Odom had come off an outstanding season.
Since the trade to Dallas, Odom has struggled beyond belief. He has had trouble on and off the court, beginning with the death of his cousin. Along with this tragedy, Odom let himself go and had to work back into basketball shape throughout the entire lockout shortened season. After a heated confrontation with Mavericks owner, Mark Cuban, Lamar Odom was deactivated for the remainder of the season. Once the season came to an end, Odom was sent to the Los Angeles Clippers with hopes of reviving the former Sixth Man of the Year’s career.
Odom was somewhat valuable in the 2012-2013 season with the Clippers but still did not live up to expectations nor his $8 million contract. The near 7 footer averaged just 4 PPG and 6 RPG. Lamar again seemed out of shape but was a positive locker room presence.
This offseason, Lamar has become an unrestricted free agent and has received interest from the Clippers and Lakers. Odom wanted to stay in Los Angeles so this eliminated any other destination. He has reportedly met with the Clippers and he supposedly warmed up to the idea of returning to the team that traded him, the Los Angeles Lakers.
Recently, it has been reported that Lamar Odom has been abusing “hardcore” drugs since being traded back in 2011. Lamar played the entire 2012-2013 season clean, but has since went back to using these drugs. Now the reason for him abusing drugs is unknown. I’m guessing it is a combination of being betrayed by the Lakers and the various off court troubles he has encountered. I personally feel bad for the guy because he is one of the better people in the NBA. I don’t, nor should anybody else want to see him go out like this. I don’t think we will see him again in the NBA because of all the drama and distractions he would bring to a team. Aside from basketball, I hope he is able to get some help and get clean as soon as possible. I have rooted for him in the past and will continue to root for him to get clean.
Great writing, and I agree. Hopefully he gets the help he needs and can get back on the court. I think the Clippers would be a good fit, he could have a fairly good season if he gets back in shape. I will still wear his Jersey…….
Thank you