i mean jordan probably never even approached 47% from the floor even once. and i doubt he ever came close to 3 assists per game.

Yes, I think the Lakers would be wise to position Bryant on the perimeter once Pau Gasol returns — however, I don’t think that’s a foregone conclusion. Asked whether Bynum and Gasol would push him out of the post when the Lakers are at full strength, Bryant said: “They know I eat first and they get the seconds.”

Bryant added he’s planning to be there “80 percent of the time.”

The triangle is built for whoever gets down court first to assume post position, and Bryant is beating Bynum down the floor and calling for the ball on virtually every possession. I don’t think that will change when Pau Gasol returns to the fold.

Bryant obviously worked very hard over the summer, and appears eager to display his improved post game. And I don’t blame him. It’s hard to find fault with a guy averaging 30 points on 47 percent shooting. He’s developed the same kind of low-post footwork that enabled MJ to respond to the variety of defenses aimed his way.

But I’m still of the belief that the Lakers need Bryant to operate on the perimeter for their offense to fire on all cylinders. Contrary to popular opinion, Bryant is a very good passer. He led the Lakers in assists in each of the past three seasons, yet he’s averaging just 2.7 assists a game this season — down from 4.9 the year prior. That’s not going to cut it. Not for this team.

Ron Artest (4.3 APG) and Lamar Odom (5 APG) can pick up some of the slack, of course, but they can’t create off the dribble, or stretch opposing teams like Bryant.

There isn’t much data to back this up, other than the fact that Gasol averaged half a shot less per game in losses than in wins and more that 1 full assist less per game in losses than wins. (not terribly convincing data)

But it seems to go along with your analysis. As much as Kobe has been in the post (is 46% in the immediate basket area really that good?) do you think he’d be better served on the perimeter once Gasol gets back since he adds outside shooting and Gasol is probably the best post player in the NBA? Also, I know Vlad Rad is a good spot up outside shooter, but what about Shannon Brown, Sasha Vujijic, and Ron Artest?

It feels like the Lakers have a lot of people that can put the ball in the hoop, but not a lot of great passers. Artest is just a poor decision maker period, and even though Kobe has the talent to be a good passer, he seems pretty reluctant, especially this year.

I doubt Bryant will continue to play in the post when Gasol comes back.

At any rate, the Lakers, Nuggets, Celtics, Magic, and Cavs will be much improved and very good by season’s end – this should have been obvious from day one. I’m interested to see if Atlanta and Portland can keep up the excellent play.