Mike D’Antoni Talks Kobe Bryant’s Minutes Limitations, Role

130413110806-kobe-bryant-injury-future-single-image-cutOn Friday, Kobe Bryant announced that he would rejoin the Lakers for their Sunday matchup against the Toronto Raptors. That night, the Lakers recorded their 10th win of the season with a 106-100 win over the Kings. On Saturday morning, the Lakers had a short team workout followed by head coach Mike D’Antoni speaking to the media about Bryant’s potential role for Sunday’s game.

In his first game back, it’s hard to expect Bryant to play heavy minutes as he’s still trying to work himself into game shape, and he’s still trying to work on building flexibility in his left ankle. The Lakers have been able to play well without him on the floor, so heavy minutes aren’t exactly necessary yet.

As far as his role, Bryant could be used to handle the ball. The Lakers struggled against the Kings when Steve Blake wasn’t on the floor with the reserves taking turns running the offense. Bryant has proved to be a capable playmaker over the last few seasons, and could be a better option than the triumvirate of Xavier Henry, Jodie Meeks and Nick Young.

Despite the role that Bryant will play on Sunday, the team should be thrilled to have a player with Bryant’s skill set on the floor. The attention he should draw should provide open, and potentially, easier looks for the other four players on the court.

————————————————————————–
Kobe Bryant Announces His Return Via His Facebook Page

You May Also Like

Lakers News: Magic Johnson, Rob Pelinka Scout Ja Morant & Dylan Windler At Ohio Valley Conference Tournament

After missing the playoffs a fifth consecutive season, the Los Angeles Lakers expected matters to be drastically different…

Frank Vogel ‘Curious’ To See Dion Waiters, JR Smith Play With Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers are in an extremely difficult spot as they head to Orlando to finish out the 2019-20 NBA season…

Video: Dwight on Starting Over & Writing his own History

At yesterday’s press conference, Dwight Howard was quick to talk about being…

Gear Report: First Look At Latest Kobe Bryant Signature Shoes

Kobe Bryant is always one to keep his fans happy with consistent…