Rondo, 35, is theoretically aging a little slower than forwards and centers. Paul still plays at a very high level of competition at the age of 35, but we don't see it in Rondo.
Rondo is in very bad shape at the moment, averaging mediocre statistics of 3.4 points, 2.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game since the start of the game. Shooting as low as 31.7 percent and three-point shooting at just 28 percent, a number of career lows were recorded. Is the 35-year-old Rondo the last stop of his career, and can he stay with the Lakers in the future?
Rondo's slump this season has been unexpected. After all, last season he was in good form. Last season, Rondo averaged just 17 minutes and had more than 5 points and 4 assists per game, shooting a whopping 40.4 percent from three-point range. Last season, Rondo not only had a steady assist, but also a sharp shot, a stable point shooter. Returning to lakers this season, Rondo has lost his way. In the limited playing time, in addition to the organizational performance is acceptable, Rondo has flaws on both ends of the offensive and defensive ends.
On the offensive end, Rondo's ability to break through is getting worse and worse, the projection is unstable, and the offensive power is declining. This, in turn, affects organizational threats. Defensively, Rondo's scramble is still active, approaching 2 steals per 36 minutes, but Rondo is very vulnerable when defending 1-on-1. His weight is already difficult to compete with strikers and young defenders. He is likely to be stepped over or forced to eat. The Lakers saw this and didn't want to put Rondo on the court for too long.
Rondo has been in a slump this season, and in addition to personal factors, it is also related to the team. The Lakers have been crowded with guards this season, and in addition to Rondo, Westbrook needs the ball, and James is on the floor to play small forwards, but he does the job of point guard. Bazemol, Ellington, Munch and Nunn, who is recuperating from injuries, are all defenders and they all need the ball. How many advantages does Rondo have over them?
On the offense he is not as stable as the above few people, and on the defense of his downward speed is also obvious. And Rondo is older and plays in a somewhat conservative way. The Lakers need a dynamic player on the floor at this stage to boost team morale.
As things stand, Rondo will have less and less playing time this season. Even if the Lakers make the playoffs, Rondo's playing time will be reduced. But that doesn't mean Rondo doesn't have a chance or even leave the NBA in the future, as Rondo has a lot of experience. His basketball IQ is among the best in the NBA, and he is a coach on the court. A lot of teams will need an experienced veteran like Rondo.
From another point of view, last season Rondo played well with the Hawks when the Hawks played, and Trae Young improved a lot. Eventually, the Hawks made the playoffs. If a young team brings in Rondo, maybe the team's record will improve.
Rondo is 35 years old, and many statistics have set a new career low. Rondo probably doesn't care, because he already has two championship rings in his hand, he's won assists, he's been named an All-Star, he's been named to the All-Team. Rondo's career has been fulfilled enough. At this stage, he just needs to enjoy basketball and play his experience and skills. Even if Rondo doesn't play, his experience and basketball IQ can help the Lakers. Dear readers, how many more seasons do you think Rondo will play in the NBA in the future? Feel free to leave a comment in the article comment area.