Lakers GM taken aback by Kobe's abrupt retirement announcement
Despite having a hunch that 2015-16 would be Kobe Bryant's final season, Los Angeles Lakers' general manager Mitch Kupchak was still stunned by the timing of the announcement.
"The surprising part of this is that he made the announcement today," Kupchak said to the media on Sunday night. "My understanding all along was that this was going to be his last year. Certainly there's been speculation and this puts an end to any speculation that he may come back for another year. But it was my understanding all along."
The Los Angeles GM did state that he believes Bryant will elevate his game now that his retirement has been made public. If true, this would be great news for the 2-14 Lakers, who need Kobe to improve his play if they want to make a run at the playoffs this season.
Bryant has struggled shooting the ball this year, making just 20.2 percent on threes and 30.5 percent overall. The 6-foot-6 shooting guard is averaging 15.5 points per game, 4.1 rebounds per game, and a player efficiency rating of just 9.92.
The Lakers play the winless Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night, a great opportunity for the team to get back on track.