Los Angeles Lakers News 2012: Kobe Bryant Expected To Move To Small Forward Position

Dec 20, 2012 02:58 PM EST

Los Angeles Lakers All-Star Kobe Bryant has always been considered arguably one of the best shooting guards to play the game, but it seems as those days are coming to an end for the future Hall of Famer.

With Jodie Meeks expected to enter the Lakers' starting lineup, the five-time NBA champion will have to change positions and move into the small forward position.

According to Kevin Ding, Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni will be moving Bryant up one position now that Meeks earned a starting role on the team.

"I'm just trying to figure out the best way to play the team," D'Antoni said. "We'll keep looking at film, keep revisiting it. We have a couple of practices, and we'll keep looking at different combinations. And there'll be a couple of times during the season, injuries, sicknesses, illnesses, whatever, that we'll give another look to different people. And hopefully they'll be ready. I hope they understand. I tried to talk to them and get them to understand, but . . ."

As D'Antoni continues to experiment with rotations, it may not be such a good idea to place Bryant in a unfamiliar position. Meeks will most likely be getting his first starting job for the Lakers on Saturday, and it will be interesting to see how the team plays.

And with Devin Ebanks taking Metta World Peace's position in the starting lineup, it'll be interesting to see whether D'Antoni still considers Pau Gasol to being a starter.

Also, Steve Nash may make his return from injury on Saturday, meaning he will be sharing a backcourt with Meeks, a lethal three-point shooter.

Related Articles:

Los Angeles Lakers Rumors 2012: Can Steve Nash Improve Team's Defense? (Commentary)

Los Angeles Lakers News 2012: Kobe Bryant Says Slow Start Has Been 'Enjoyable'

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