Victor Oladipo’s NBA Journey: From Indiana to Houston, with a Stop in Los Angeles
Victor Oladipo has had one of the most interesting and unpredictable NBA careers of his generation. Drafted by the Indiana Pacers in 2013, Oladipo quickly blossomed into one of the league’s most exciting young players. He was named the Most Improved Player in 2018 after averaging 23.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. However, Oladipo’s career has been plagued by injuries, and he has never been able to fully reach his potential.
Indiana Pacers
Oladipo was drafted by the Indiana Pacers with the second overall pick in the 2013 NBA draft. He immediately made an impact, averaging 13.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game in his rookie season. Oladipo’s athleticism and slashing ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He was also a capable defender, earning a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2016.
Oladipo’s breakout season came in 2017-18. He averaged 23.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game, and was named the Most Improved Player. Oladipo led the Pacers to a 48-34 record and a playoff berth. He was also named to the All-NBA First Team.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Oladipo’s career took a turn for the worse in 2019 when he ruptured his quad tendon. He missed most of the 2019-20 season, and returned to the court in 2021. However, he was not the same player he was before the injury. Oladipo was traded to the Houston Rockets in January 2021.
Houston Rockets
Oladipo played 20 games for the Rockets in 2020-21, averaging 21.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. However, he was again sidelined by injury, missing the rest of the season with a knee injury. Oladipo was traded to the Miami Heat in August 2021.
Miami Heat
Oladipo played 33 games for the Heat in 2021-22, averaging 19.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game. However, he was once again plagued by injuries, and was traded to the Indiana Pacers in February 2022.
Los Angeles Lakers
Oladipo was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in September 2022. He is expected to play a key role for the Lakers this season.
Conclusion
Victor Oladipo has had a rollercoaster ride of a career. He has been one of the most exciting young players in the NBA, but he has also been plagued by injuries. It is unclear what the future holds for Oladipo, but he is a talented player with a lot of potential.
Oladipo’s story is one of perseverance and resilience. He has been through a lot in his career, but he has always come back stronger. Oladipo is an inspiration to all athletes who have faced adversity.
I hope this blog post has given you a better understanding of Victor Oladipo’s NBA journey.