Kobe Bryant has never really been a player worried about what others have to say about him. Whether it is criticism about his play or the performance of his team, Bryant does not consider outsiders’ opinions.
Beto Duran of ESPN tweeted some of Bryant’s comments during today’s media session and the five-time champion responded to the concern some people have about the Lakers’ 0-2 start.
Kobe to doubters “everybody SHUT UP”
— Beto Duran (@DuranSports) November 1, 2012
Kobe smiling on fans panic used words “stupid and idiotic”
— Beto Duran (@DuranSports) November 1, 2012
Kobe on fan overreaction “biting my tongue not to say “dumb”
— Beto Duran (@DuranSports) November 1, 2012
Lakers fans have a tendency to overreact to bad stretches of games, but with such a demanding fan base, something like that isn’t new. However, the pressure to succeed is much stronger this season due to the amount of talent the Lakers have put together.
With a new system and a plethora of new players, it will take some time for everyone to get adjusted. The Miami Heat did not click with the Big Three until a few months into their first season, and the same will likely happen for these Lakers. Kobe Bryant understands that winning a championship is a process and that creating a contending team cannot occur overnight. Even though the Lakers have gone 0-2 so far this season, there are still 80 games left to play.
Los Angeles will have to work out its problems and that can take quite some time. The players have to get used to their teammates’ tendencies and spots on the court; however, one thing is for sure, once they do the Lakers will be a very scary team to face.