While little about Rajon Rondo and his skillset has changed in the 11 months since he was last a Laker, much about the Lakers’ situation has, namely in the addition of Russell Westbrook. In his last stint with the Lakers, Rondo was needed for on-court production as much as he was needed for off-court leadership and mentorship.
As Rondo returns, the Lakers' needs have shifted noticeably away from the court and more in the direction of that leadership and mentorship. With Jared Dudley retiring and joining the Mavericks’ coaching staff, the Lakers need a player that can be the veteran voice to the team from the end of the bench.