With the Lakers’ pre-season training camp well and truly under way, Mike Trudell has reported some of his light-hearted observations during the team’s practices.
Kobe to Swaggy P, who's guarding him: "Come on you're smart enough not to force me one way! You're not strong enough."
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) October 2, 2014
After riding him all game, Kobe put his arm around Young after Swaggy hit the final J, shared a laugh. It's the whole "tough love" thing.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) October 2, 2014
Despite the certainty that Kobe Bryant will have to share shots this season with the trigger-happy small forward, it seems as if the Mamba may be taking Young under his wing. Kobe’s influence over the members of the roster remains as strong as ever, even amongst some of the more outgoing and experienced individuals.
Nick Young: "It's a great feeling to have someone like Kobe pushing (me) every day." Bryant has definitely been going at @NickSwagyPYoung.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) October 2, 2014
After a season where Nick Young notched career-highs across the board, the power dynamic between Bryant and himself will be intriguing to watch as the season gets underway in 27 days.