After Nick Young signed his hometown friendly four-year, $21.5 million contract to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers, he was all smiles and once again proud to be able to put on the purple and gold uniform that he took pride in doing last season.
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But just before “Swaggy P” could get comfortable, he received a phone call from Kobe Bryant. The phone call was much more than a simple congratulations. According to Los Angeles Daily News’ Mark Medina, Kobe had some interesting words for Young.
He was telling me to get in the gym and work hard,” Young recalled. “They’re already counting us out.”
The Lakers are coming off the worst season in franchise history finishing 22-55. They missed out on former free agent Carmelo Anthony, and saw long-time big man Pau Gasol leave money on the table to bolt to Chicago.
The Lakers were quoted to have a “Plan B” on their minds after missing out on the big fish in free agency, but the “Plan B” has left Laker fans scratching their heads.
The trade for former Houston Rockets guard Jeremy Lin and a future first and second round pick was pure genius, but after that, it seemed as though Lakers’ management panicked and made some impulsive signings, but nevertheless, the Lakers are in the situation they are in for a reason.
It seems that the Lakers may have lost their way, but Young continues to remain optimistic.
“We’ll be fine; they got me,” Young said. “We’re a playoff team. Don’t count us out.”
At this point, a playoff team seems a bit far fetched, but with a work ethic and hopefully an injury free season, the Lakers could possibly sneak into a final playoff spot and bring some life back to Staples Center. Whether that will happen or not will have to be seen, but one thing is certain, it is great having players who take pride in putting on the Laker uniform.
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