In what can only be described as an utter display of cutthroat Los Angeles Lakers competition, Kobe Bryant has injured Nick Young, who is now slated to miss the next 6-8 weeks. In all fairness, Bryant didn't intentionally injur Young, but nevertheless his elbow told a different story.

According to initial reports, Young and Bryant were in an epic battle of trash talking and driving on each other. Bryant pulled up for a jumper and Young's hand smashed firmly into the 'man of steel's' elbow. Young now has a torn ligament in his shooting thumb and will require surgery.

When asked for a reaction towards Young's injury, Kobe answered as only Kobe would, "My body is made of steel that's why." Kobe did go onto say how the loss of Young will be detrimental to the team, but they will find a way around the ordeal.

Young was averaging close to 18 points a game last season, and looking to the future he was set to become one of the best 'sixth men' in the game. His leadership and overall 'swag' was ideal for having the second unit rally around him.

Lakers coach Byron Scott was also asked about the incident. "Maybe I jinxed him, I don't know," Scott said. "I'm not going to say anything good about Nick Young for the rest of the year. Maybe that will keep him healthy for us. My answer to him was, 'If you moved your feet you wouldn't hurt your hand.' And he just started laughing, hopefully it's something that's not long term."

While the injury is not something completely terrible for the Lakers, 18-points a game is a big deal. Naturally, Young's number would have decreased in his new role, but even so a player that talented should never be on the bench for long.

The Los Angeles Lakers will faceoff against the Denver Nuggets tonight in their preseason opener. The game tips off at 7 P.M. (P.T.) and can be seen on NBA TV or listened to on ESPN Radio 710 AM.

With the season just under three weeks away, fans will be curious to see how Scott has transformed the team in his short tenure. Naturally, Scott should be around for at least a couple of seasons, but improvement and progress are things that Los Angeles will be looking for as they pray for a competitive season.