NBA News And Rumors: Lakers Nick Young Being Mentored By Kobe Bryant

After missing out on landing one of the big named free agent superstars this offseason, Los Angeles Lakers current superstar, Kobe Bryant, continues to do what's necessary to help develop his teammates as they prepare for what is expected to be a rough season.

Veteran guard Nick Young, also known as "Swaggy P", opted to re-sign with the Lakers on a four-year deal that will secure his future with the franchise past Bryant's reign, which is expected to come to an end with his pending retirement looming.

Although only having played just six games with the five-time NBA champion, the 29-year-old Young told ESPN that Bryant has remained to be a mentor to him every step of the way:

"He's been great, really," Young told ESPN's Dave McMenamin. "He's been like my mentor, really, right now. He's been calling, texting me, talking to me, motivating me. I think that's big. Growing up, who would have thought Kobe would be the one doing all that? I didn't ever think I'd be working out with Kobe or talking to him."

He later went on to announce his new nickname in reflection to his upcoming role as one of Bryant's role players with the Lakers.

"Batman needs Robin," Young said. "I'm here, 'The Boy Wonder.' The Boy Wonder is here. That's what I'm here for."

Young, who is currently participating in this summer's Drew League sponsored by Nike, also went on to address the large majority of doubters who believe the Lakers' playoff chances are non-existent next season.

"We ain't worried about nothing out here," said Young. "We're just going to go out here and do what we do. We like to be underdogs."

Last season Young became a valuable asset for the Lakers averaging 17.9 points per game in Bryant's absence.