NBA: Lakers Legend Sends Tough Love To New Boston Celtics Star Guard

Kobe Bryant knows that for any basketball player to succeed, hard work and the right approach to the game is essential. Apparently, the retired Los Angeles Lakers star is also following the 2019 FIBA World Cup and recently gave his thoughts on several players.

After offering his assessment on Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, his latest was directed on Kemba Walker. Coincidentally, Walker is the newest guard in the Celtics roster. He was acquired by Boston in a trade with the Charlotte Hornets involving Terry Rozier, NBA.com previously reported.

Speaking on the ESPN series "Detail," Bryant broke down a play between Team USA and the Czech Republic involving Walker. The Black Mamba noticed Walker taking the ball out near halfcourt multiple times before finally driving to the basket.

"[Walker's] got the defender on his heels, standing in this tight space we can carry a threat. But now, he backs it all the way back [out to halfcourt]. It's just more work. Now the defense can collapse on you, and you try to manufacture a play out of it vs. your job already being done," he said.

Bryant has been likely in similar situations in the past although the criticism is something that Walker may want to listen to. Besides, the 41-year-old retired NBA star gave his share of praises on the 9th overall pick of the 2011 NBA Draft. Walker is undoubtedly Team USA's best all-around performer right now and the comments made by Kobe should be considered more as a means to improve for the rising star guard.

Seeing how Walker will have a tougher load this coming NBA season with the Celtics, it would be best to heed the flaws that Bryant has seen. The comments may be directed to his performance at the FIBA World Cup for now although he can digest and use that once he formally takes the lead guard role for the Bean Town squad in a couple of months.

In a previous article, Walker admitted that he is still adjusting with his new team. He is aware that the Celtics have been winning for years and that he has huge shoes to fill - referring to Kyrie Irving. Things failed to pan out between Uncle Drew and the Celtics. Now, Walker hopes to prove he can do better - and some actually feel he can.