The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most storied franchises in NBA history and there is certainly pressure that comes with being a member of the team. From the demanding fan base to the scores of media outlets, it can be very hard to represent the Lakers, especially as a head coach.
This is Mike Brown’s second season as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers and things are only getting tougher for him. With a revamped roster, the Lakers have made themselves the best team in the NBA on paper. With all their star power, the Lakers are in a “championship or bust” mindset and Brown has to make sure he can get his players on the same page.
—- Kick off the season with your own Lakers Nation t-shirt! —-
However, Brown told the USA Today, he felt more pressure last season even though this roster has complete title aspirations.
“To me, I felt more pressure going into the season last year. It wasn’t from the standpoint from the team or anything like that, but because of the (lockout) shortened season. I really didn’t know these guys. I didn’t know the media, or anybody in town, so there were a lot of things that I had to get used to while coaching the team for the first year. But I wanted that (Lakers pressure). I wanted that. I had other opportunities to go other places, but I wanted that.”
It was extremely hard for Brown to get adjusted to his new team last season with a shortened campaign. There were less practices and less time for him to get on equal terms with his players.
Even though this Lakers roster cannot settle with just a Western Conference championship, Brown feels as though he is more prepared. Although it will take time for the players to get accustomed to each other and the new system, Brown and his staff have spent a lot of time figuring out rotations and plays.
The Lakers may not peak until mid-season, but the potential for absolute greatness is there. Never has Brown been around such a talented team, but is ready to embrace the challenge and is willing to deal with the pressure.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Check out what Mike Brown had to say about Kobe being “chippy” in practice today.
__________________________________________________________________________________
[jwplayer config=”lakersnation_player” file=”http://youtu.be/7bdY7VnhZxc” autostart=”false”]
