Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant is not in his best form this 2015–16 National Basketball Association (NBA) season, especially with his shooting, but head coach Byron Scott is not looking to lessen his playing minutes.
In their last game Tuesday, Bryant tied a career-worst shooting night against the defending NBA champions Golden State Warriors, going one-of-14 from the field for four points in 25 minutes of action.
Bryant's shooting this season is truly a major concern not just for the future Hall of Famer, but also for the Lakers who are dead last in the Western Conference standings with only two wins in 14 games.
Despite the shooting woes, Scott believes the answer is not limiting Bryant with his role with Los Angeles or playing time.
"I haven't thought about reducing his role. I think his role is pretty defined for us right now. So is his minutes," Scott said last Wednesday, according to ESPN.
ESPN reported that Bryant is shooting a career-worst 31.1 percent from the field and is averaging more shot attempts than points this season.
The 37-year-old has played in 11 games so far, averaging 15.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.1 steals in 30.5 minutes played per contest.
Another factor being considered regarding his shooting performance is the playing time he has which is 30.5 minutes per game, second overall for the Lakers behind second year guard Jordan Clarkson who is averaging 30.8 minutes per outing.
That means the five-time champion is not being as productive as he should be with the minutes being given to him.
But Scott is not worried and told the Los Angeles Times, "I know his mentality is that he can still play in this league. And we feel the same way."
There is still ample time for Bryant and the Lakers to turn things around this season, but they have to do it as soon as possible, and can begin when they hit the road and take on the Portland Trail Blazers this Saturday.
