SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA'S EA SPORTS REPORT
INTERVIEW WITH LAKERS GM MITCH KUPCHAK
After the Lakers win over Phoenix, road analyst JD Cooper, an analyst for the SCEA Report, did an interview with Mitch Kupchak in Phoenix.
JD: Good evening Mitch, and congratulations on the win.
Mitch: Thank you.
JD: So, first off, how is Kobe Bryant at this point?
Mitch: Well, he was reexamined yesterday and team doctors said that he indeed will be out for around 7 weeks, making his return sometime before the New Year, which is a really long time.
JD: I see, now its probably a fortunate thing that this injury came right when Shaquille and Derek returned.
Mitch: Yes, this really did come at a fortunate time for us.
JD: Now, what can you say about the other Lakers stepping up, such as the emergence of Mike James? Was there anything said to him in particular?
Mitch: Coach Rudy T talked to Mike before the game against the LA Clippers during practice and said that since we have one less scorer in the starting lineup, its was up to him (James) to take more shots. He could have more freedom with the ball instead of being a stand still shooter, which is really not what he's known for. He's got to take more shots, create for himself, and for his teammates.
JD: I guess that talk really got his game going. Now how about the others?
Mitch: Well its really great for Chris Mihm doing an excellent job backing up Shaq and starting when he was injured. He has been scoring at ease, blocking and consistently rebounding for us. Keyon Dooling as well is doing a good job backing up Kareem Rush or Mike James when he is called for. Lamar, Shaq, everyone is really stepping up. They know their roles on the team.
JD: How is this team's future, with so many players becoming free agents after this season?
Mitch: Yeah, we are aware of the numerous players becoming free agents at the end of this season. Right now, myself, Jim Buss, Jerry Buss and the whole organization are trying prioritize certain players, but its really hard. Robert Horry will be a free agent, Mike James will be a free agent, Luke Walton will be one, Rick Fox's contract is almost up, you know, its really hard to really decide who to keep at this point. Newly acquired Charles Oakley will also be a free agent.
JD: One last question Mitch, as what everyone is wondering, how long do you think the Lakers can sustain this run with the whole league watching them?
Mitch: I generally think its up to the players if they are up to it. Coach is really urging them on not to relax. Only time will tell.
JD: OK, that's it. Thank you Mitch.
Mitch: Thanks a lot.
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