With the Los Angeles Lakers drafting D’Angelo Russell and Jordan Clarkson emerging as a potential star in the making last season, there’s been a lot of debate about Kobe Bryant’s position heading into next season.
— Have you seen the ‘Lakers Nation’ phone case? —
On Thursday, head coach Byron Scott eluded to Bryant likely shifting over to small forward, according to Mike Bresnahan of the L.A. Times:
Plenty to happen before opening night, but D'Angelo, Clarkson and Kobe will probably play together, Byron said. In other words, Kobe = SF
— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) July 9, 2015
It seems as though rookie D’Angelo Russell will be the starting point guard right out of the gate for the Lakers next season alongside starting shooting guard Jordan Clarkson. Although there’s no telling how this dynamic will work out with all three of the team’s best guards on the floor at the same time, it is an exciting prospect to say the least.
Along with Clarkson, Russell and Bryant, second-year forward Julius Randle will likely get the start at power forward. Randle has received high praise throughout the off-season for the work his put in to improve his game. Clarkson and Russell have also praised Randle for his play during scrimmages in preparation for the NBA Summer League.
As for the center position, Roy Hibbert will likely get the nod if the trade with the Indiana Pacers goes through as anticipated. Tarik Black and Robert Sacre will be the primary backups behind Hibbert.
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