It's simple. Kobe knew what his cap crippling contract would do to the Lakers' chances of being competitive. He made his bed, he'll lay there.
2 years ago when Nash was 37 and humming along at 12.5 and 10.7 on 53/39/89 shooting everyone thought he could easily play into his 40s. Things can change quickly.
I could see a team like the Hornets wanting him, that would be pretty cool to see actually. Kobe and Jordan and whatnot, because Kobe mimic Jordan so hard at one point. I think though he'll be content with going for the scoring record...I think that...but anyone as competitive as Kobe is going to swallow hard with each loss I wouldn't be surprised if by the trade deadline he'll be asking out.
Kobe's whole identity is wrapped up with the Lakers, I would be shocked if he ever agreed to play anywhere else. Btw, is it true he's actually named after Japanese Kobe beef?
Kobe will request a trade by the end of this season. He will request the Lakers trade their entire roster for new players. Every.Single.Player.
Kobe will finish his playing career and then go on to be Head Coach for the Lakers. The "family/loyalty" angle sells regardless of wins.
Star players do not become head coaches very often. Kobe would be a terrible coach and this will more than likely not happen. He clearly doesn't need more money, regardless of the fact that he wouldn't be able to coach.
Kobe's ego makes me think he'll want to be involved, but I can also see the angle where he can bruise his ego if he fails miserably and is critized, so he might not even look into it. It's not even about the skill of him coaching, more about the name and the Lakers organization constantly making mistakes.
Damn, I was out and saw the game against GSW. I actually thought they were going to steal one until the third was over. Don't like the guy but gotta respect his drive.
this is what he wanted. he basically said "f a ring", and is now chucking to move up the all time leading scoring list.
You'd be better off letting Troy Daniels play this way. His scoring numbers would be through the roof with just as many wins.
