Kobe Bryant has been killing it from midrange this season. He has looked reluctant to drive to the basket. While he has done a great job with his jumpshot and creating shots from the post, we wonder when we’ll see an explosive Kobe Bryant.
Today’s scrimmage had a limited registration to the public.
Kobe wanted to show something for the public.
And here’s the video: https://t.co/b1e3Z6ak0S RT @LakersReporter: Kobe just exploded for a hammer dunk through traffic in a 3-on-3 drill.
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) October 18, 2014
Knee injuries and a torn achilles are tough injuries to come back from. The player that was the closest to recovering late in his career with superstar talent was Dominique Wilkins. He was a volume mid-range shooter late in his career, but was known as the “Human Highlight Film” throughout his career.
It’s not easy to get into game shape at the beginning of the season. There’s a different kind of process when going through the preseason and into the regular season. Eventually the body will adapt to the rigors of the season. Kobe Bryant had spent a lot of time recovering from his surgeries and running. His jumpshot has rarely looked so pure.
But now, several games into the preseason, Kobe is showing the Laker crowd that there’s something in the tank. He’s showing them that when there is space, he is willing to extend himself and make a statement.
It is tough to see how far he is jumping on the dunk, but it appears he’s jumping just in front of the free throw line circle.
Chances are, he’ll get better with explosiveness as the season continues. It’s important for him to get playing time and develop consistency, as his body is still adapting to the NBA season.
He is showing signs early on. Imagine what he could look like at All-Star break. Imagine what he could look like this upcoming spring.
He may just start looking like himself, the Kobe we’ve always known. I’m sure he’ll want to leave that imprint on his fans minds until decides to hang them up.