How Andrew Bynum and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Can Save the Lakers

The legendary ex-center has molded Bynum to his liking during practice and shootarounds, and has even schooled the youngster in the ways of the sky hook—which Bynum has yet to unveil in game action.

But here's a question: Does the burgeoning big man have the goods to join the ranks of all-time Laker greats?

Jerry Buss, Mitch Kupchak, and Kareem certainly think so.

That's the reason Bynum was drafted so early, so early.

For most teams, Bynum's would be a case of risk outweighing reward. But for the Lakers—and thanks in large part to Abdul-Jabbar—Bynum seems to be an all-star in the making.

After averaging a paltry seven minutes a game as a rookie, Bynum is logging more than 22-per this year. He's also going for eight points and almost seven rebounds a night. Add in his nascent shot-blocking ability, and you've got the kind of post presence Kobe can't help but smile about.

At this point, Bynum's future hinges on his ability to put forth a consistent effort each time he steps on the floor.

As Kareem sees it, all the youngster needs is time.

"Andrew's still learning what the game's about," Abdul-Jabbar said in an interview with SLAM magazine. "It's game conditions that really season you, so every time he gets an opportunity to play it makes a difference."

On the court, Bynum has become increasingly adept at finding the open man in the triangle offense. It's no coincidence that Tex Winter's system was initially conceived with a skillful big man as its focal point.

It's far too early to start drawing conclusions, but suffice it to say that Bynum's skills make him a candidate to be the fifth in a line of iconic centers who've helped define the Lakers franchise.

As for whether he'll ultimately etch his name alongside those of Mikan, Chamberlain, Abdul-Jabbar, and O'Neal, well—

Only time and championships will answer that one.