Last Updated on January 1, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake

Lamar Odom was a highly talented basketball player known for his versatility and skill set. He played primarily as a forward, often showcasing exceptional ball-handling and passing abilities for someone of his size (6’10”). Here’s an overview of his career and skills:

  1. Versatility: Odom was known for his versatility on both ends of the floor. He could play multiple positions, including small forward, power forward, and even point forward at times. His ability to handle the ball and facilitate offense made him a unique player.

  2. Skill Set: Odom possessed a well-rounded skill set. He was a good shooter with range, although not a prolific three-point shooter. His ability to drive to the basket, handle the ball in transition, and pass effectively made him a valuable offensive weapon.

  3. Defensive Ability: Odom was also a capable defender. His size and athleticism allowed him to guard multiple positions effectively. He could block shots and grab rebounds, contributing significantly to his teams’ defense.

  4. NBA Career: Odom played in the NBA from 1999 to 2013, with notable stints with the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat. He won two NBA championships with the Lakers in 2009 and 2010, where he played a crucial role as a versatile forward.

  5. Accomplishments: Apart from his championships, Odom was named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year in 2011, showcasing his ability to excel coming off the bench. He also represented the USA in international competitions, winning a bronze medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics.

  6. Off-Court Challenges: Despite his basketball talent, Odom faced personal challenges, including well-publicized issues with substance abuse. However, he remains respected for his basketball achievements and contributions to the sport.

Overall, Lamar Odom was considered a very good player during his prime years in the NBA, known for his versatility, basketball IQ, and ability to impact the game in multiple ways.

Lamar Odom entered the NBA at the same time as Tracy McGrady. McGrady, who entered the NBA straight out of high school, was only known to his local area of Bartow, Florida, but he has stated that he knew who Lamar Odom was. According to McGrady, Odom was the most popular name in basketball yet to enter the NBA, and for that reason, he looked forward to playing against him. Odom was drafted by the Clippers. He briefly played for the Miami Heat before joining Kobe Bryant playing for the Lakers. Odom then spent 7 years in the prime of his career playing alongside Kobe and competing for championships. He would eventually win two NBA titles (2009, 2010). He won Sixth Man Of The Year in 2011, but it would prove to be his last year with the Los Angeles Lakers. He then went to Dallas for one season before finishing his career where it started, with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Career Stats

SEASON TM GP MPG PPG RPG APG SPG BPG FG% FT% 3P% TS%
1999-00 LAC 76 36.4 16.6 7.8 4.2 1.2 1.3 43.8 71.9 36.0 52.1
2000-01 LAC 76 37.3 17.2 7.8 5.2 1.0 1.6 46.0 67.9 31.6 53.6
2001-02 LAC 29 34.4 13.1 6.1 5.9 0.8 1.2 41.9 65.6 19.0 47.3
2002-03 LAC 49 34.3 14.6 6.7 3.6 0.9 0.8 43.9 77.7 32.6 51.9
2003-04 MIA 80 37.5 17.1 9.7 4.1 1.1 0.9 43.0 74.2 29.8 51.6
2004-05 LAL 64 36.3 15.2 10.2 3.7 0.7 1.0 47.3 69.5 30.8 53.9
2005-06 LAL 80 40.3 14.8 9.2 5.5 0.9 0.8 48.1 69.0 37.2 55.8
2006-07 LAL 56 39.3 15.9 9.8 4.8 0.9 0.6 46.8 70.0 29.7 55.2
2007-08 LAL 77 37.9 14.2 10.6 3.5 1.0 0.9 52.5 69.8 27.4 58.2
2008-09 LAL 78 29.7 11.3 8.2 2.6 1.0 1.3 49.2 62.3 32.0 54.2
2009-10 LAL 82 31.5 10.8 9.8 3.3 0.9 0.7 46.3 69.3 31.9 53.3
2010-11 LAL 82 32.2 14.4 8.7 3.0 0.6 0.7 53.0 67.5 38.2 58.9
2011-12 DAL 50 20.5 6.6 4.2 1.7 0.4 0.4 35.2 59.2 25.2 42.3
2012-13 LAC 82 19.7 4.0 5.9 1.7 0.8 0.7 39.9 47.6 20.0 42.9
AVERAGE   68.6 33.4 13.3 8.4 3.7 0.9 0.9 46.3 69.3 31.2 53.4
Lamar Odom career stats