Patrick Beverley’s time with the Los Angeles Lakers was definitely memorable, but not always for the right reasons.
After joining the team at the start of the season, it became clear that Beverley was not a perfect fit for LeBron James and his squad.
He averaged just 6.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, which were all far below what the team expected of him.
He didn’t have the same passion or drive that he exhibited with other teams.
Patrick Beverley's +/- each game this season since being traded from the Lakers:
@ TOR: +2
vs WAS: +9
vs BKN: +24Tonight vs DET: +14
He was only a +9 or higher with the Lakers this season 3 times in 45 games. He's hit that mark with the Bulls already in 41 less games. pic.twitter.com/88EppZb5jY
— Unbiased NBA Fan (@nonbiasednbafan) March 2, 2023
But since leaving the Lakers for the Chicago Bulls, Beverley has been looking more like his regular self.
His +/- score for each game since arriving in Chicago tells the story of a revived Beverley.
He had achieved +2, +9, and +24 before Wednesday night’s game against the Detroit Pistons when he notched +14.
For comparison, he was only a +9 or higher with the Lakers three times this season.
It is clear that Beverley feels more comfortable in Chicago and that makes perfect sense.
Beverley was born and raised in the Windy City so this homecoming is a welcome one by the guard.
Additionally, the pressure is off his shoulders with the Bulls.
He was brought to the Lakers as someone who could achieve what Russell Westbrook had not.
There was a lot riding on Beverley and he didn’t respond well to that.
Coming back home and entering a lineup that suits him better has given Beverley a second wind.
He is still averaging just 5.3 points but his rebounds have reached 6.8 and his assists have bumped up to 4.8.
Plus, there is a good chance that those numbers will only improve in the weeks ahead.
NEXT: Bulls Star Now Sits Alongside NBA Royalty
