Lance Stephenson finally debuted as a Los Angeles Clipper, and for NBA fans who have been following the preseason games, many perhaps know by now that it wasn't exactly a sight to behold.
In fact, Stephenson seemed lost and took shots that didn't exactly find its target. And for that, some are now casting doubts on whether or not getting Stephenson into the Clippers fold was a bright idea.
Of course, there are a lot of factors to consider.
One is that Stephenson is coming off injury and obviously lacking the same confidence that he had with the Indiana Pacers.
Second, he has not yet fully adapted the Clippers system, understandably so since it is too early for him to acclimatize himself in a whole new environment that is packed with stars.
With regards to his shooting, Clippers head coach Doc Rivers came to Stephenson's defense saying that the temperamental swing man was never known to be a good shooter, but rather someone who is streaky. He further added that he will be using Stephenson more at the point once it is time for the second unit to take the floor.
So does this mean Stephenson has been relegated to the backup role?
He believes that Stephenson is a guy who can create situations, which somehow counters earlier belief that he would be spending time in the off guard and small forward positions.
Recall that it was earlier anticipated that he would be jostling with veteran Paul Pierce for the starting small forward slot but it seems that this will not be the case.
With the preseason games going on right now, it would be too early to tell if the Clippers unwisely took a chance on Stephenson. Rivers has fate in him and, apparently, there is still time for him to show his wares and win the hearts of Clipper fans this coming NBA season.
