You need stars and you need role players to win championships. Everybody can’t be a star. L.A. Lakers coach Phil Jackson has learned the art of balancing role players and stars
when putting together a championship team. It’s a delicate balance.
Everybody on the Lakers team knew that offensively Kobe Bryant was their go to guy. He played the role of the star, but learned over the years how to help the role players do their jobs.
Lamar Odom and Trevor Ariza were key Lakers role players. They knew their first job was to defend Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu. They put their energy into the defensive side of the court.
I think that was one of the keys to Los Angeles winning the recent NBA Finals. It's one of the reasons that Jackson is one of the greatest pro coaches in the history of professional sports.
I like the fact that Andy Reid seems to have put together a team with role players and stars.
Jason Avant for instance is a classic case of a role player. He’s got a high football I.Q., great hands and tremendous toughness. He doesn’t have much speed.
I love the way Avant fits in as a role player. He’s like a big brother for his more talented wide receiver teammates. He’s the first one in line during the drills. He’s the first one diving on the ground for a pass.
It’s always team first when he talks to DeSean Jackson or Jeremy Maclin. He stresses the positive and talks soberly with these younger players.
Avant isn't the type who regrets the stardom and success which could be headed toward Jackson and Maclin. He wants to see them do well.
The best thing about Avant is that he knows he’s a role player. He runs down on the special teams like a wild man. He blocks for the running backs and other receivers like his life depended on it.
I think they need a veteran running back like Warrick Dunn who would be willing to play the same role with the running backs.
