I don’t think players are scared to play with Kobe per se, I just believe that Kobe’s mentality doesn’t mesh well with the younger players in the league.
Kobe’s obsession is basketball and frankly that isn’t the same for a lot of players. When Kobe sees that he automatically loses respect for you (see Dwight Howard). A secondary reason is star players don’t want to play second fiddle to Kobe especially if there is no chance for a championship. Kobe is a giant and there are only a few giants in the NBA. It is easier to go play for LeBron or KD because they are still in their prime and will put you in a position to win a ring. When Kobe was in his prime and competing, no one had problems coming to the Lakers. This is simply about an aging superstar who hasn’t been surrounded with the proper young talent to continue a championship run. It is simple as that.
Well alright. "Anyone afraid to play with Kobe Bryant is probably a loser." – Jeanie Buss on SC
— Shannon Cross (@mscrossy) October 23, 2014