The Andrei Kirilenko Sixth Man Expirement Becomes Permanent

Earlier this pre-season there was a big fuss about Lakers star forward Lamar Odom moving to the bench this season. Odom initially wasn't happy with the move, but after some success with the Lakers young run 'n gun subs, he has become happier with his new role.

Similarly, the Utah Jazz have been experimenting with having star forward Andrei Kirilenko, come off the bench this pre-season. With the injury to Deron Williams, some suspected that the Kirienko 6th man experiment would end. But Monday, Jazz coach Jerry Sloan confirmed that AK would continue his reserve role:

Asked about moving Kirilenko back to the starting lineup, Sloan said: "Probably not. Not at this stage. I hope that works out. Andrei's played awfully well coming off the bench."

And for his part, Andrei also seems pretty happy with his new role:

"Coming off the bench is not an issue for me, Kirilenko said. As long as I have time on the floor, I feel pretty good."

That's good for Jazz fans. For a second there, I thought he was going to respond with an "I must break you!!!!"

Anyhow, with both Odom and Kirilenko becoming reserves this season, this might be the most competitive sixth man of the year award race we've seen in years. It might even be more of a nail biter than Kobe Watch 2007. Who do you think will win this year's sixth man award?