Despite a clear decline on the game of Kobe Bryant, Coach Byron Scott has not yet thrown the white towel for the veteran LA Lakers superstar. Kobe Bryant as opposed to his majestic years is now only averaging 31.1% from the field and 19.5% from three-point range. Many NBA enthusiast and mere observers suggested that Kobe's playing time should be shortened and be given to younger players. But for their head coach, it is not yet the right time to do so. According to Los Angeles Times, Scott emphasized that;
"I have not considered that yet. It's too early in the season. I think he's averaging about 30 minutes a game. He's still getting plenty of rest. I don't think so -- maybe [he] is, but in my opinion watching it, I don't think so." He also added that, "Obviously he's struggling right now with his shot. In the last few days, he said he feels great. I don't think it's a matter of him being tired, or his legs behind tired, I think it's just a matter of his timing being a little off."
Despite the logical and practical reasons behind the shortening of game time, Scott still believes that Bryant would soon find his rhythm as the season advances. Coach Byron Scott believes that Kobe earned a license to miss some shots, and decreasing his role in the team he [Kobe] brought to victory many times would somehow be an insult, especially that this year might be his last. With more time spent inside the court, Kobe could somehow find the right combination for his play to come out. Scott stated via LATimes that;
"Trying to find the right combination is probably the tricky part. I'm letting [Bryant] try to find [that balance] for himself. He's been doing this for a long time. I'm not so much worried about Kobe. I am concerned about his shooting percentage and his shot so far, but as far as knowing him the way I know him, and how long he's played in this league, I'm not worried about him finding it."