Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant reportedly is studying how veteran Paul Pierce adjusted his game to compensate for age. The Lakers, meanwhile, appear likely to sign free agent Michael Beasley.
Bryant, 36 years old and coming off two major injuries, knows his body isn't what it used to be. In an effort to compensate for his declining physical abilities, Bryant reportedly is studying how Pierce adjusted his game to remain efficient on the court in spite of his age.
Per Chris Ballard of Sports Illustrated:
"In preparing for this season, Bryant told friends that the player he is analyzing, as an example of adjusting your game as you get older, is fellow 36-year-old Paul Pierce. This is part of his goal to become 'more efficient' on the court.
"Said Bryant, 'I'm going to max [my last two years] out too, to do whatever I can. Leave no stone unturned, no water left in the sponge.'"
For Bryant, remaining efficient on the court means becoming craftier and more cerebral.
"I'll be sharper," he said. "Much sharper. Much more efficient in areas. I'll be limited in terms of what you see me do, versus a couple years ago. But very, very methodical, very, very purposeful."
While Bryant continues to prepare for the upcoming season, the Lakers continue to build the team one piece at a time. With two roster spots open, Beasley appears likely to be the next piece added.
"I'm told that Michael Beasley had a second workout with the Los Angeles Lakers today," Alex Kennedy of BasketballInsiders.com tweeted Wednesday. "We'll see if the Lakers sign him."
With a crowded frontcourt already, it's uncertain how much playing time the Los Angeles could give Beasley. The 25-year-old may not have any other options, though. Other teams appear to be uninterested in the small forward, who has a history of off-the-court issues.
