After a long summer Lamar Odom has struggled to find his role along side his new teammates

The exit of Tyson Chandler left many in Dallas wondering who would take his place. The Mavericks could not rely on the inconsistent play of Brendon Haywood or the young Ian Mahinmi who was still unproven. With the center position in doubt the Mavericks made a bold move. On the 11th of December, they traded for the NBA’s 2010-’11 sixth man of the year winner, Lamar Odom. Lamar Odom accompanied Vince Carter and Delonte West as the top additions to the team. While Carter and West have eased into their roles Odom has struggled, averaging the lowest points of his career in the first twelve games of the season.

The season is still early but many are wondering when Odom is going to come out of his slump. The high profile Odom was involved in several high stress situations over the long off season, including the trade that sent him to Dallas, leading some to believe he isn’t focused. The most recent high stress situation occurred on Thursday night during a team trip to Washington DC. Odom disappeared with a stripper into a backroom of a strip club, sending gossip sites into a tizzy.

When asked about his troubles Odom had this to say

“I thought my game was equipped to play anywhere and everywhere. I’m not prepared, I guess, to play. I don’t know if there is anything more to say.”

The season is still early and Lamar Odom is a professional so there is still hope for Maverick’s fans. The good news is that while Odom has struggled Mahinmi has picked up his game this season, out scouring and out rebounding Odom to start the season.