BASKETBALL MPG--HOW MINUTES PER GAME CAN IMPROVE AVERAGES

BASKETBALL MPG—HOW MINUTES PER GAME CAN IMPROVE AVERAGES

A quick glance at today’s NBA player statistics for the Lakers shows that Shannon Brown is averaging 16 mpg, which is the perfect average mpg per player for a 15-man team. This roster currently shows only 13 men, but it could show 15, and the 16-minute average would then apply. The starters and regulars who average greater than 16 mpg and the substitutes who average less than 16 mpg have similar stats in many respects, but the one we will concentrate on for the moment will be mpg.

The closer a team gets to an average player mpg of 16 minutes, the more experience that team will be able to present to an opponent, and the entire team will be stronger as an offensive and defensive unit than a team with lopsided player mpg averages. Players who observe their opponent from the sidelines are able to bring that knowledgeable response to the court when given an opportunity to increase their mpg to a more equitable average.

Adam Morrison currently has the lowest mpg for the Lakers, which I believe is going to be increased throughout the season, as he works into the rotation. We expect great things from this young player, as he showed great promise in the Las Vegas summer league as well as a fabulous college career at Gonzaga.

I believe that increasing average mpg for reserve players will greatly improve the ability of the entire team to function as a cohesive unit and present a more formidable offensive and defensive capability to opponents. Some will worry about the effect this will have on individual and divisional standings, but I think this strategy is worth the effort, despite the initial reaction that may result from its implementation.

When fans realize that the goal is building a better team which is more experienced and better prepared to defend our national title, they will enthusiastically support the coaches and team as they increase the average mpg of the reserves, thereby improving the Laker’s chances to repeat as NBA champions in 2010. Let’s all work together to make it happen!

Mark Overt Skilbred