Kobe Bryant return update indicated that the Los Angeles Lakers superstar is taking a different approach in training with his teammates heading into the 2014-15 NBA season.
Bryant, who will be playing in his 19th season in the league, has the reputation of being too hard on his teammates, but the 36-year-old superstar is reportedly becoming more patient in training camp.
From being a teammate who is very hard to please and to play with, Bryant is reportedly playing the role of a mentor to their young players, particularly to rookies like Julius Randle and Jordan Clarkson. The "Black Mamba" is teaching them on how to become a better pro moving forward in their respective careers.
"My style is a little different with his group. It's a little more nurturing," the 18-year veteran said in a Kobe Bryant return update on ESPN Los Angeles. "They're so much younger, so it's a little different. The important thing with this group is learning how to think the game all the way through, which is different than on teams that we have had in the past. We had a lot of veteran guys who had been around. So my teaching style is different.
Third-year center Robert Sacre admitted that he was very hesitant to talk to Bryant during his first two seasons in the league because he is aware that the 16-time All-Star is tough to deal with. But this season, Sacre also noticed a significant change in Bryant's demeanor.
"He's been really vocal as a leader. In the past, he hasn't been as vocal," Sacre said in a Kobe Bryant return update. "But this year he's really been trying to communicate and help guys out. This year has made an effort to push guys but at the same time give them advice to make them better."
But will Bryant's mentorship role make the Lakers a successful team this season?
Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders believes that the Lakers could become a playoff team in the upcoming season and win 45-48 regular-season games, but it will depend on how healthy Bryant will be.
Bryant missed their 2013 NBA Playoffs campaign after sustaining a torn Achilles tendon in April last year then only played in six games last season after hurting his knee.
If Bryant will manage to stay healthy and play at least 60 regular-season games this year, Kyler said that the Lakers will be able to bounce back from their disappointing finish last season.
