He started 23 of Vanderbilt's 30 games, but wasn't able to play at all in four games and hardly ever practiced. When LaPointe played he was ineffective on offense, averaging only 4.5 points per game. His presences on defense, however, made him a valuable asset. You have to go around somebody, go up and get a rebound, and put it back. You're always trying to score over the top of somebody.
Defense is easier to play with back problems.
The Commodores were able to compensate for the lack of LaPointe because Dan Langhi was averaging 22.1 points a game. Langhi's now in the NBA, so his scoring will definitely be missed. Since the surgery, LaPointe has added 10 pounds to his muscular frame, making him more of a force inside on both ends of the floor. He now weighs 260 pounds. LaPointe said Vanderbilt fans won't recognize the Commodores when they hit the court for their first exhibition game, Nov. 7 against the California All Stars at Memorial Gym.