With Kobe Bryant on his way out, the Los Angeles Lakers must begin to prepare for their future. It will certainly be a different feel without Bryant who has spent all 19 years of his NBA career in the purple and gold.

Los Angeles has a terrific trio of young players in Julius Randle, D’Angelo Russell and Jordan Clarkson. Randle is a walking double-double with the handles of a guard despite being 6-foot-9. The 21-year-old forward is averaging 11.1 points and 10 rebounds this season. Clarkson is having a solid sophomore season after he surprised the NBA with a fantastic second half in his rookie year. He’s averaging 15.4 points and 3.9 rebounds, and the 23-year-old has scored in double-digits in 23 straight games.

The key to the Lakers’ future is Russell. The 19-year-old is averaging 12.2 points, 3.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists. After starting in the early portion of the season, Russell has come off the bench in the last 31 games. The problem with Russell has nothing to do with his skill set and instead has to do with his energy and effort. At times Russell looks lazy and appears to lack motivation, then there are days where he is a spark off the bench. It could have to do with his role as he is itching to join the starting lineup.

At 6-foot-5, Russell has the ability to play either guard spot as he can pass like a true point guard and is a good shooter from midrange and deep. He and Clarkson complement each other as both players are versatile and have the size to defend multiple positions. It’s clear that the pair enjoys playing on the floor together.

Head coach Byron Scott must do a better job of coaching the younger guys instead of accommodating all of Bryant’s needs. Scott should begin to play Russell 30-35 minutes so he can be ready for next season. The future is bright in Los Angeles, but it’s up to Russell for the Lakers to take the next step.