Kareem Rush

Like Mike Dunleavy Jr., Rush isn't on the team for his defense. The Pacers specifically spent the offseason looking for another outside shooter, and Rush was their second target after Jason Kapono. He spent last year playing overseas in Lithuania, after getting cut by the Sonics in training camp in part due to an inability to get over a groin injury. When Rush was with Charlotte, there were significant questions about his work ethic, so a trip to the doghouse here isn't beyond the realm of possibility. Look for Rush's production to come sporadically.

Rush showed flashes of what he could do last season. He's not a great slasher, but he can shoot the ball (he hit 38 percent of his three-point attempts and averaged 11.5 points per game). But if he wants to log major minutes at shooting guard, he needs to be a little more versatile. If not, Keith Bogans, Matt Carroll and Jason Kapono could take minutes from him. If Rush can prove he's more than a jump shooter, he could be worth a late-round pick.

Rush is the best three-point shooter on the squad. Although Rush is slated to be Bryant's backup, expect Tomjanovich to find ways to get both Rush and Bryant to be on the court simultaneously, as Rush is the most likely candidate to capitalize on the open shots Bryant will create. If Atkins doesn't pick up the offense quickly, expect the Lakers to have the backcourt of Rush and Bryant for a good portion of the game. Should Rush get the playing time, he's a nice sleeper for this season.

Rush will probably play around 10-15 minutes a game (if that) spelling Bryant on occasion. The upside for Rush is that he may get more playing time if Bryant's off-court troubles cause him to miss games or play poorly.