Andrew Bynum Re-Commits to Defense

Following a fiery speech from veteran teammate Derek Fisher, Young ‘Drew says he’s committed to defense now more than ever, and the OC Register reports that the Lakers couldn’t be happier with the big fella: “It took a man wiser than Bynum’s years to get the 22-year-old spring chicken realizing he should be appreciating the chance to play and play hard this year. Ever since Lakers teammate Derek Fisher, 35, lit into the team facing a eight-point deficit against visiting Toronto on Friday night, the Lakers have gone harder and become happier – and won. More than anyone, Bynum has a newfound spring in his step. ‘He’s a great orator, and he’s able to speak to us and motivate us,’ Bynum said of Fisher, ‘and he definitely did that for me. I’ve just kind of made a commitment to playing hard on defense, and consequently you get involved in the game,’ he said. ‘I like it a lot. It’s very fun for me, and I’m going to keep it up.’ Spurred on by Fisher’s words, Bynum dominated the third quarter against Toronto and then took away the fourth-quarter playing time Phil Jackson gives Gasol by default. Bynum has kept up the activity, averaging 20 points, 10 rebounds and two blocks over the past four games. Gasol is clearly proud of his big-man partner having emerged recently. ‘We love it,’ Gasol said.”