NBA Summer League 2014: Where does DeAndre Kane fit on the Los Angeles Lakers?
By Brian Spaen
If there’s one former Iowa State player that showed signs that he’s ready for the NBA right now, it’s DeAndre Kane.
More from Iowa State Cyclones
- Get Cyclones News, in the New FanSided Android App
- Clones Confidential Madness: Win $500 or an Apple TV from RetailMeNot and LockerDome
- FanSided Madness: Win $500 or an Apple TV from RetailMeNot and LockerDome
- Get Instant Cyclones News, in the New Sports Illustrated App
- Make sure a Cyclones fan is crowned Fan of the Year
Kane had the best summer league out of all of them, getting enough playing time in his five games to garner interest from all NBA teams if things don’t work out with the Los Angeles Lakers.
At 25 years of age, it’s no surprise that Kane actually looked like a veteran out there at times. He didn’t start a game for the Lakers, but he played nearly 100 total minutes and progressed as his time in Las Vegas went on.
In the Lakers’ consolation game against the Denver Nuggets, Kane had 12 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steal, and a block while going 5-of-9 from the field overall. He was awarded extended playing time, and he never played less than 11 minutes in any of the five games.
Kane’s total statline is all far better than any other Cyclone in the summer league: 28 points, 11 rebounds, 9 assists, 4 steals, and 2 blocks.
Outlook: After being signed by the Lakers to the summer league nearly a month ago, everyone assumed Kane would have a chance to make the team since they essentially had a bare roster. Now his chances have slimmed after the team’s big acquisition of Jeremy Lin. Assuming Steve Nash returns, Kane would be the third point guard on the depth chart.
However, what could aid Kane is his versatility. He wouldn’t have to be the designated point guard, having the build and strength to come in as a small forward as well. He showed promise with boarding 3 rebounds in each of the last three games.
Even then, the Lakers will probably use one of their four power forwards and switch them to the three as well. They only have one designated SF, Nick Young, and he’s nothing more than a bench player at the moment.
My gut instinct is Kane won’t need to head overseas this basketball season. I hope the Lakers take a chance on him and it would be great to see him gain some significant playing time in his rookie season. Otherwise, I’m sure some other NBA teams will give him a look.