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The LA Lakers have added an interesting two-way prospect to their roster in the shape of Scotty Pippen Jr, NBA legend Scottie Pippen's son.
After going undrafted, Scotty Pippen Jr. was picked up by the LA Lakers along with Shaquille O'Neal's son Shareef O'Neal. Given the two rookies come from rich basketball backgrounds, the expectations on their shoulders will be high.
Pippen Jr. recently spoke about his development and how he used to play one-on-games with his father. According to the freshman guard, he used to beat his father quite often, resulting in Pippen senior stopping to play against his son.
"I was wearing him out. I used to beat him, and he’d fake injuries and stuff. He wouldn’t give me the credit so we stopped playing a while ago," Pippen Jr. said according to Kyle Goon.
The notion of a 6xNBA champion resorting to faking injuries to avoid the shame of losing to his son is a little hard to believe.
What can the LA Lakers expect from Scotty Pippen Jr.?
The 21-year-old has a lot to offer despite going undrafted. Standing at just over six feet as per NBA Draft Combine measurements, Pippen Jr. is undersized even at the guard position. This is in direct contrast to his father, who was a towering 6'8" player. Nevertheless, Pippen Jr. will have other ways to contribute.
During his time at Vanderbilt, the 21-year-old averaged over 20 points per game in two seasons. He also has the ability to score from all three levels.
The aspect that does make him stand out is his hustle. Scotty Pippen Jr. has shown some resemblance to his father on the defensive end. With a knack for racking up steals, the rookie guard could have a lot to offer as a pesky on-ball or weak-side defender.
Several analysts believe that becoming a 3-and-D player would suit him best. Ultimately, it's the Lakers' system that will define his role.
