After being sidelined since early November with an abdomen injury, Steve Blake is finally set to return to the Lakers on Tuesday night in a matchup with the New Orleans Hornets.
Here’s the news straight from the point guard’s Facebook:
“Road to Recovery update: I’ve been cleared to play in next Tuesday’s game. It’s been a long road and I’m thankful for the support. I’m really looking forward to being back on the court with the LA Lakers.”
Although the Lakers have depth at the point guard position, and backup point guards Chris Duhon and Darius Morris have had their share of notable games (although they were largely overlooked due to the Lakers’ other issues and struggles), neither reserve has had a consistent impact as of late.
Additionally, Mike D’Antoni had long been a fan of Blake and always inquired about the point guard out of Maryland during his coaching tenure with the Phoenix Suns. Apparently, D’Antoni saw Blake as the perfect fit for his system.
Blake averaged just 5.1 points and 3.4 assists while shooting 40.0 percent from three-point land in the seven games this season prior to his injury, so it will be interesting to see if D’Antoni’s point guard driven system will open things up for the 6′ 3″ guard.
Kobe Bryant appeared to entrust Blake as well, most notably during the playoffs last season.
Nonetheless, the Lakers will have another option in the back-court .
