The Post Game
The biggest reason why I griped about Kobe going to work 25 feet away from the basket was because I saw Michael Jordan dominate the game from the post in an era that allowed more physical play, yet, for some reason Kobe rarely went down into the block. Down the stretch, Michael had a go to move in the post. He knew how to create looks for his teammates, draw a foul, or take a high percentage look from the block. The unfortunate thing about Kobe taking so long to do so is that he no longer possesses the legs to shoot the turnaround fade away jumper at a high percentage that was Michel’s signature move. This new development in his game is the biggest reason why I have elevated him already to the Jordan Plateau.
Kobe shows flashes of brilliance in the post but is still fairly raw in this area of his game. It appears that there is significant room for growth. Finding a go to move as well as a counter move for it will be crucial for the success of his post game. As the year progresses I also hope he can find ways to receive the ball in the block and add a face up game, allowing him to elevate for a quick jump shot or quick move going to the basket. His left-hand has also proven to be a consistent threat more than ever this year. I could see him adding an arsenal of running hook shots using either hand. Another good sign is that Kobe has yet to fully learn all the angles from passing in the post and how to create havoc on a defense that is forced to collapse on him. Come playoff time, I see the development of his post game making the biggest difference in tight ball games with a lineup of Lamar and Pau Gasol. Combined with Odom’s ability to slash to the basket and Gasol being able to knocked down a perimeter jump shot and space the floor will likely create nightmares for bigs.
Next: The Fear Factor
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