CourtVision: The New Kobe; Grantland Article

[Free Rider]

Don't know if anyone posted this yet but it's an interesting read from Grantland. Much of it has already been discussed here already but it's worth a look.

http://www.grantland.com/blog/the-triangle/post/_/id/53866/courtvision-the-new-kobe

From an offensive perspective, Kobe is a better player than he was last season. Last year Kobe shot 43 percent from the field; this year he’s shooting 48 percent. This is a significant improvement, and as I frequently point out, these kinds of changes in field goal percentage usually have less to do with changes in shooting ability and more to do with changes in shot selection. This is certainly the case with Kobe — the biggest changes in his game since last season are a marked decrease in midrange shooting and a corresponding increase in close-range shooting. Last year, the lion’s share (55 percent) of Kobe’s shots came from the midrange, while only 24 percent came close to the basket.

[Gek]

If only LA had SportsVu! Good read - love the Goldsberry articles.

[Slava]

Good stuff. The most efficient basketball shot zones are obviously 15ft and low or out to the 3 pt line and Kobe's shot clusters pretty much fall in there this season.

There could be many reasons for this, his improved health, Nash and better floor spacing the back-court and most importantly the lack of Mike Brown.

[Venomous]

Good stuff. The most efficient basketball shot zones are obviously 15ft and low or out to the 3 pt line and Kobe's shot clusters pretty much fall in there this season.

There could be many reasons for this, his improved health, Nash and better floor spacing the back-court and most importantly the lack of Mike Brown.

To add to that last line, Kobe has definitely been making a more concerted effort to drive to the basket. Lots of good things definitely happen -- drive & dish, drive & kick, layups, and dunks.

His ability to drive and read, has also opened up his face-up/post/mid-range game.

[AcecardZ]

I'm pretty sure the better shooting has to do with him being healthier this year than he was last! I didn't read the article yet but if Immons doesn't mention the possibility that Kobe is healthier this year than he was last he's a (Please Use More Appropriate Word)!!!!

And fwiw I like reading Simmons' stuff even if his bias is blatantly clear!!

[Dr Aki]

kobe's more efficient because he's taking more efficient shots?

who'd have thunk that?

whether its health allowing him to get to the rim, or a change in mindset from kobe to purposely attack the rim. its resulted in his best season efficiency wise since ever. also being a willing passer, now that we have boatloads of outside shooters who aren't afraid to shoot

[TyCobb]

vino#

[Sofa King]

Y'all just jinx'd everything about Kobe's health.