Through ten games of the Laker season, it has been very evident that Kobe Bryant is in his natural shot-creating mold. This is not the mold that led to championships, but is a result of countless years of hard-work and dedication. Kobe Bryant’s best NBA talent is creating shots.
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There are only two players that come to mind when it comes to being consistent on the offensive end. Kobe Bryant is going to create shots. Ed Davis is going to finish in the paint. Carlos Boozer, Jeremy Lin, and the rest of the Laker team have looked inconsistent on the offensive end.
Yes, that can be due to many reasons. Some players aren’t comfortable in the system just yet. Some players are trying to figure out their spots. It’s understandable. This core of a Laker team has been together for a few months and has already dealt with its share of injuries since the preseason. How long has the core been together for the opponents? After all, they have faced the Clippers, Warriors, and Spurs.
November 16, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) shoots against the defense of Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson (11) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
So, what can build the Laker team as a whole? What will it take to build confidence in each other on the offensive end? Take out the variable that is “too aggressive.”
When Kobe Bryant is taken away from the offensive equation, everyone on the floor needs to step up offensively. They need to trust in their talent. They need to run the system. They need to trust in each other.
It makes sense, right? After all, we are trying to protect Kobe’s health. Instead, we’re finding him taking shots to make up for the past two seasons that he never took. No wonder why he’s a bit shot hungry.
The decision lies with Byron Scott. It’s tough to sit Kobe. You’ll get a decent shot on the offensive end, that he can make regardless of difficulty. He can keep you in games. Sometimes, he can keep you out of them.
Kobe Bryant’s minutes have been increasing to the mid-30’s again. It’s probably a good idea to drop down the playing time under 30 for a bit. He doesn’t need to sit down entire games. But, can it really be that hard to rest him 4-5 minutes a quarter?
The team needs to build within itself, without Kobe Bryant on the floor.
This time, building the team is of greater value than playing Kobe Bryant.