c2c basketball

The Kobe Digest is the Indiana Pacers’ team report written by Kobe Bryant.

Team reports are articles written by the General Manager star player of each franchise. Whether it is weekly, monthly, or after every trade or game, c2c’s team reports are an inside look to each franchise. Maybe an explanation of a trade or a week in review of how the team has faired in games, either way, these are the words of the league and owners.

Brace yourselves.

Last season was very rough. We were on a roll and one of the most cohesive units in all of basketball history, in my opinion. Then injuries came about, I came back late in the season, we were sniffing the playoffs, then Camby went down. It was a tragedy. However, I can’t sit here and reminisce about last year. We have to look at next year.

First and foremost, the big trade that happened I’m really curious to see how it pans out. Many say Camby’s HGH performances were too much too lose, however, I’m a firm believer that the system was catered to make players like Camby really benefit. The addition of Kenyon Martin, a 1st rounder, Raja Bell, and Earl Boykins gave us a lot of depth. I don’t know if Boykins is sticking around, or even Kenyon, but I’m happy to have Raja Bell alongside me at the swings.

Something interesting that a few people said about Martin’s and Bell’s nice ratings, but lack of results got me worried, but as Coach Carlisle said,” The system can make or break you. Team defense is not about one player, it’s about rotations & close-outs. Individual defenders are great for stretches, but not for an entire game.” Some fans complained saying despite Bell & Martin’s defensive ratings, they won’t do all that much. I think with the system we have on Defense, we’ll always be great at it.

Other acquisitions including the arrival of Mr. Adonal Foyle, Kosta Perovic, and Mike Dunleavy Jr. were great. Dunleavy Jr. brings some size on the perimeter, and can be a great weapon off the bench for offense, Foyle brings us our best shot blocker and someone of physical use. We’ve got a lot of big men, and I think that is to our benefit, none are really scorers, just high energy & efficient so we know we can always keep fresh bodies out there. Boykins is someone I need to touch on also, I think his offense will be great. I’m interested to see if Coach will start him, but I think he’ll give to Mr. Snow.

Our rotation got much wider over the off-season, we’re going to bring up Alexander Johnson I hear. When he played with us early in the season, he was full of energy & great overall, it’s a pity we sent him to the D-League, but now he’s got his chance. I think our rotation expanded from a strict 7-man unit to a legit 10-man unit. Eddie Jones may be returning, and I think some speciality players will be added.
Other rumors surface and the possibility of Darko leaving is mentioned. Darko & I worked great together, he’s young and has size so I know the upper management won’t toss him away. For all I know, he could be a starter for us.

That’s all folks,
Kobe Bryant….FTW!