Considerable excitement came to the historic franchise when it drafted D'Angelo Russell No. 2 overall in this year's draft. Many are eager to see how the supremely confident rookie blossoms and how much Bryant's role as a mentor will impact the new face of the franchise.
One former "Black Mamba" teammate in Jordan Hill didn't have the kindest words to say about how Bryant treats those around him.
Bryant has a strong personality that Russell may be able to handle. Whether the other young Lakers can—including recent standout summer-league performer Julius Randle—is another matter that may have a big impact on their development.
Jordan Hill Sounds Off on Kobe Bryant
The Lakers didn't pick up Hill's player option, which led to him signing with the Indiana Pacers this offseason.
Hill wasted no time in taking a bit of a shot at L.A.'s biggest basketball star—albeit without any detectable contempt or vitriol—during his introductory Pacers press conference.
"When he's on the floor it's like (exhales), all you hear is Kobe's mouth," said Hill, per Hoops Habit's Shane Young (h/t Pro Basketball Talk's Kurt Helin). "He's on the floor all you hear is Kobe's mouth, like during practice and games, it get loud. It get loud. A lot of people can't handle that I guess."
It's not exactly breaking news that Bryant is ultra competitive and rubs some of those who encounter him the wrong way. There's at least some method to the Black Mamba's madness, considering he's won five championships in his magnificent career.
Most interesting about this bit of news is Hill will do what he can to contribute to a new-look Indiana front...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
