As we await the return of Kobe Bryant and a new-look team, several NBA insiders have taken to the Web to relay updated news and speculation prior to the start of the 2014-15 season. So, what's being said about a team looking to rebound from its worst season in franchise history?
Here's some of the latest and greatest Lakers news from trusted sources around the Internet.
The Return of Kobe Bryant
The enigmatic Bryant returns to regular-season action Tuesday against the Rockets after playing just six games last season. This year marks the NBA veteran's 19th NBA season, and there's ongoing debate over exactly how much this legend has left in the tank.
For one, Bryant is surrounded by many new faces. His mentor role with Jeremy Lin has made several headlines throughout the offseason, and that led to some high praise from general manager Mitch Kupchak during an interview with TWCSportsNet, via LakersNation.com.
Said Kupchak: "I think he can make the All-Star team. I think he'll have the ability to score when he wants to score. I think he'll be a great leader. His voice will be heard. He won't be like he was 15 years ago—that wiry, springy, try to dunk the ball every time—but you won't notice it."
Bryant will have plenty of opportunities to score—for the most part. The veteran's playing time has been cause for some buzz, and head coach Byron Scott didn't exactly give a clear answer when asked about his star's on-court time, via Bleacher Report's Kevin Ding:
While it certainly looks like Bryant is ready to go, and he'll be given enough time to produce at a high level, some analysts just ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
