Nick Young played just eight minutes in the Los Angeles Lakers loss to the Houston Rockets Sunday night. After the game, Lakers head coach Byron Scott said he benched Young in the second half because he did not like his body language, saying specifically that Young seemed like he “didn’t want to be there.”
Though Young did not speak to reporters on Sunday night, he did open up about his frustrations at practice on Monday.
It has a lot to do with frustration building up from losing. Obviously, we’ve only won 12 games this year. Losing can catch up to you. I’m still a human being. You get tired of getting beat up.”
Young also said being benched in the second half, made him think back to his rookie days, but Young also stressed that he came in with a good attitude at practice on Monday and knows he needs to stay positive.
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With the breaking news that Kobe Bryant is scheduled to undergo surgery on Wednesday, Young also said Bryant’s injury could be “a blessing in disguise” for players fighting for a contract, waiting for an opportunity to showcase their talents.
When asked what the team collectively has to do to make up for the likelihood that Bryant will not return this season, Young said with a smile:
Pretty much just give me the ball and get out the way!”
Young also sprained his ankle at practice on Monday. The Lakers take on Washington Wizards on Tuesday at Staples Center.
[divide]VIDEO: Byron Scott Thought Nick Young Looked Like He “Didn’t Want To Be Out There”