This season has been a major disappointment for the Los Angeles Lakers. One player who fans and coaches hoped would take a big step forward was Nick Young, who signed a four-year contract in the off-season after leading the Lakers in scoring last year.
— Think You Know Everything About Kobe Bryant? Take The Ultimate Kobe Quiz! —
Unfortunately, Young never quite got on track this season, and head coach Byron Scott has not been shy about calling Young out on what he needs to improve on. With his season likely over, Young feels like Scott has unfairly targetd him this year according to Mark Medina of the Los Angeles Daily News:
I’m used to it right now, hearing what Byron has to say,” said Young, who is in the first season of a four-year deal worth $21.5 million “I take it with a grain of salt.”
Does Young take Scott’s words as valuable feedback?
“Nah,” Young said. “I don’t know. I feel like it’s just a target toward me. It’s a little unfair. But it’s cool.”
Scott has been adamant this season about Young needing to expand his game. While a talented scorer, Scott feels Young must improve his defense and playmaking abilities. In recent comments, Scott seemed to imply that Young could see a decrease in minutes next season if improvements aren’t made and the Lakers improve the roster.
This season has been a very frustrating one for Young as his numbers dropped and injuries robbed him of what could have been a breakout season. Scott has his way of dealing with players and while it may not sit well with some, it is unlikely that Scott is going to change his style.
[divide]Byron Scott Explains His Lineup Changes: ‘No Rhyme Or Reason’