At media day, the remaining Laker players from last season all discussed the injuries and poor team chemistry that ultimately plagued their championship dreams. While the media has low expectations of the Lakers, the team is clearly re-energized and excited about this year’s challenge.
In order to exceed expectations this season, Steve Nash believes the Lakers need to develop an identity:
“We need to form an identity and understanding of how he (Mike D’Antoni) wants us to play. I think he’s looked at the roster, actually had his imprint on this roster and we can find a way that suits the collection.”
With Mike D’Antoni expected to implement his offense, there may be concerns that Steve Nash and Kobe Bryant can’t play with each other since they are both ball dominant players. However, Nash is confident both players can find a way to compliment each other:
“I think there were times last year where it felt good and seamless. There were other times last year where maybe I wasn’t feeling great and he had to do too much. I think we can find a way to really compliment each other and use our collective skills and experience to be really successful.”
There is a misconception about Bryant having to be the team’s primary ball handler and Nash essentially being the spot-up shooter. The only reason that occurred last season was because Nash wasn’t healthy and Kobe had to take on that responsibility.
When Nash was signed last year, Bryant was excited that he didn’t have to be the team’s primary ball handler anymore and could completely focus on being a scorer. This season, both players should return to their natural duties. While Nash isn’t expected to carry the offense like he did in Phoenix, both players should be able to relieve pressure and compliment each other.
In his first season with the Lakers, Nash averaged 12.7 points and 6.7 assists.
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Coach Mike D’Antoni Talks Kobe’s Return, Being On The Hot Seat, And Steve Nash. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel by clicking here!
