Los Angeles Lakers: Kobe Bryant’s Absence Affects The Future
By Chris Walton
The Los Angeles Lakers are currently in the midst of their star, Kobe Bryant, take off a few games for rest. Prior to the two games where he hadn’t made an appearance, fans saw him post averages of 21.4 points on 34.9 minutes per game over the last 10 he’s played.
To add to seeing so much time on the floor, he has shot a pedestrian 33 percent during the stretch. The Lakers have only been able to rally four wins during Bryant’s compilation of shooting himself in and out of the games. The news gets no better, as Bryant may sit for a full week.
Anthony DiMoro reports:
#Lakers Coach Bryon Scott told Wayne Ellington & the Lakers that "it could be a week" before Kobe Bryant returns to game action #sportsrants
— Anthony DiMoro (@AnthonyDiMoro) December 26, 2014
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While their leader will attempt to gain his legs and muster energy for the season’s remainder, the Lakers will have to figure out several things about the team. One of the first things is evaluating different rotations together, while the other is looking to stay afloat the waters of “anti-tanking.”
The reality of the situation is that the Lakers will not win many games with or without Kobe. Yes, the team caught the Western Conference-leading Golden State Warriors in a classic trap game. The team exhibited high-scoring and balance in their victory.
The team had seven players in double figures on the night, shooting 51.7 percent. The game indicated that given the right roles, players can certainly produce.
No Kobe means that the Lakers can squeeze their rookie Jordan Clarkson in their rotation. While he hasn’t done much to warrant big minutes, the opportunity to be exposed to showcase his skills can prepare him for the future.
Currently he is averaging 13 minutes per game, and has displayed both the athleticism and aggressiveness that will eventually gain him a larger role. It’s imperative that the Lakers develop him, as his talent can grow while he plays on a small scale deal for the next few years.
The Lakers also have a chance to possibly increase the value of several trade chips, including Jeremy Lin, Jordan Hill, and Ed Davis. Each player has been given larger roles in the offense, with Ed Davis primarily doing great work.
Davis followed up a 14-point performance against the Warriors and consecutive double-double against the Chicago Bulls (13 points and 14 rebounds) and Dallas Mavericks (11 points and 10 rebounds). His one-year deal combined with potential at age 25 could draw a few suitors.
Again, you have to believe that contenders with thin frontcourts will be in contact with the Lakers.
Right now it’s all about the Lakers growing without Kobe Bryant. Snippets in the media about different players wanting a chance to run the offense and take big shots can finally be honored. It all depends on who will step up at this point.
Coach Byron Scott is giving the green light, and on a nightly basis, anyone can showcase so much-needed excitement for Los Angeles. The next challenge lies in allowing confidence and abilities flourishing in the right direction.
Can Kobe allow his teammates to finally take on some of the offensive workload? The question will remain unanswered until his return. All of LakerNation can believe is that during this brief hiatus, Bryant finds it an easier task to trust his team and front office, as both could embark on the road ahead to a brighter future.