Los Angeles has generally performed well in the preseason, accumulating a 3-4 record that includes a trio of wins in its four most recent games. Kobe Bryant, although he suffered a minor leg injury against the Sacramento Kings on October 13, has looked like he might be ready to accept a smaller role this season. Meanwhile, Lou Williams, Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle appear primed to supply healthy production in 2015-16.
The regular season starts in Tinseltown next Wednesday, and the team will have to make its final roster cuts before then. But what's making news in the Lakers camp at this point?
Let's look at Kobe's injury status and some optimistic aspirations Los Angeles has for the upcoming regular season.
How's Kobe Doing?
Bryant suffered a left leg contusion against the Sacramento Kings and hasn't gotten back on the court since. But the Los Angeles Daily News' Mark Medina reported head coach Byron Scott thinks the 37-year-old swingman will be available for the season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 28:
Kobe's health will obviously be important in 2015-16. He told Yahoo Sports' Marc J. Spears in August that this could be his last season, so Lakers fans will definitely want to get their fix of the legend this winter in the event he does retire next summer.
Also, while Bryant is able to mentor from the sideline, it's just not the same as being on the court with his teammates. D'Angelo Russell, Clarkson and Randle are three young potential stars who could benefit from the tutelage Kobe can offer them.
In addition to his health, his ability to accept more of an off-the-ball role will be key.
To be frank, last season was a ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
