When the Los Angeles Lakers make their selection in the 2015 NBA Draft, they’ll do so without giving a care to Kobe Bryant.
That’s the word from general manager Mitch Kupchak himself who says the Lakers will not draft a player to ‘fit’ with Kobe Bryant.
Of course, this is a completely sensible suggestion and one the team needs to make considering the Black Mamba has not only talked about potential retirement after the season, but he’s clearly past his prime.
The Lakers have debated how they will use their No. 2 pick. Some options include Duke center Jahlil Okafor, Ohio State point guard D’Angelo Russell or point guard Emmanuel Mudiay, who played professionally last season in China. The Lakers also have the 27th and 34th picks. Kupchak argued such a youth infusion “can make it fun for (Bryant) again,” though Kupchak hopes to add more veteran players during free agency.
Which qualities would any of those No. 2 prospects need to flourish under Bryant’s imposing presence?
“We’re not going to pick a player because he can play with Kobe, likes Kobe or dislikes Kobe,” Kupchak told Los Angeles News Group. “We’re going to pick the player that can have the longest and best career.”
Assuming the Lakers either draft Karl-Anthony Towns or Jahlil Okafor, I’m not really sure there’s a problem with a fit regardless.
