A Scout’s Eye: Kobe Bryant

Dec 8, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Kobe Bryant (24) drives against Toronto Raptors shooting guard DeMar DeRozan (10) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

Kobe was attacking the paint.  Working with and without screens, it was surprising to see that he was able to get by his first defender.  He was being shifty off-the-dribble, then bumping the defender.  The added upper body strength certainly helps, but he was able to get to the painted area, usually 5′-10′ away from the basket to try and create a high percentage shot.  It’s obvious he’s not confident on the elevation of his jumpshot, and that was especially evident in a triple pump-fake left-handed 8′ bank shot that he took to try and shake Demar DeRozan.  Elevation is going to be key going forward, and there’s no doubt in my mind, he’ll gain some more over time. Considering his ability to get in the middle of the paint, his game isn’t going to be pro-dominantly isolation plays from midrange, but attacking midrange off-the-dribble, similar to what Steve Nash has done his entire career.