The Los Angeles Lakers fell to 0-2 on the season after getting routed by division rival Sacramento Kings, 134-112. It was an embarrassing effort on the defensive end for the Lakers and things must change on that side of the court if the team wants to challenge opponents this season.
— What will Kobe Bryant make this season? Find out here! —
Not only was defense a problem for the Lakers, but also their inability to protect the basketball. Los Angeles turned the ball over 19 times and that allowed the Kings to gain a comfortable lead in the early goings. After just two quarters, the Lakers saw themselves down 24 points and there was no coming back from a deficit that large.
After the game, Kobe Bryant spoke to the media about the development of the younger players, via Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters. Although the team has plenty of veterans on the roster, Kobe understands the need to give over some of the responsibility. He would like to see D’Angelo Russell, in particular, have more control over the decision making process on the court, which will accelerate his growth as a point guard.
Kobe (1/3): “I’m really wanting the young guys, especially D’Angelo, let him call the game, let him organize the game, let him read the flow
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) October 31, 2015
Kobe continuing (2/3): “Let him (D’Angelo) make those decisions which is part of me taking a step back which needs to be done…”
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) October 31, 2015
Kobe (3/3): “You have to be there to help & support them (young guys). You’ve got to let them develop. It’s difficult but it has to be done”
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) October 31, 2015
Russell struggled in his regular season debut against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but he did fare a little better Saturday night. The rookie out of Ohio State finished the game with 13 points while grabbing two rebounds and dishes out two assists. As for Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle, they added in 22 points and three points, respectively.
There still is a lot of room left for improvement for the Lakers three young stars, and Bryant sees the importance of that process. Not many people expect this team to make the playoffs in the stacked Western Conference, so the goal should be to develop the talents of Russell, Clarkson and Randle.
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