Lakers Training Camp: Six Things to Watch
By Hannah Kulik
Jan 21, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) is defended by New Orleans Pelicans forward Dante Cunningham (44) during a game at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans defeated the Lakers 96-80. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
3. Will Kobe Bryant Fit In or Stand Out?
As long as Bryant remains on the team, he will always be the center of attention. He sells tickets and draws fans, but it is unrealistic for Bryant to expect to be the ball-dominant player he has always been at age 37 and coming off major injuries in three consecutive seasons.
Will the “Black Mamba” try to stand out or will he try to fit in?
Historically, Bryant has always been the former, but the Lakers desperately needs him to embrace the latter. As a complimentary piece, Bryant can make a major contribution, and the team will prosper from it.
“Vino” has decided to keep playing, which is fine, but he must understand and accept the circumstances. This is a Lakers team that is starting from the bottom. The future depends on the young players getting meaningful minutes this year and gaining experience. If Bryant gets frustrated with his teammates and takes over, it will lead to disastrous results on and off the court.
Training camp should provide the first glimpse of how Bryant intends to conduct himself this season.
Next: Will the Lakers Outside Shooting Improve?