Before the game on Thursday night, Kobe Bryant addressed the Lakers’ audience with a message of gratitude and hope. Kobe Bryant will make his record fifteenth consecutive start in the All-Star game in Houston on Sunday. Dwight Howard will make his first start as a Western All-Star, joining a heavy LA lineup of Chris Paul and Blake Griffin as well.
---- Commemorate Kobe Bryant's 30,000th point with this wallpaper! ----
However, there is a different feeling going into the break this year as the Lakers are currently four games under .500 (25-29), and will heave to fight with everything they have for a hopeful playoff spot. Yet, Kobe Bryant urged fans to join them in that fight, as he told the fans at Staples Center and viewers at home:
“Enjoy the break, and let’s get ready for a big push in the second half of the season,” Bryant said to the Lakers’ crowd before the game.
Bryant had the following message for his teammates as well:
What does Kobe want his teammates to focus on during the All-Star break? “Just focus on how bad you want it and how important this is”
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 15, 2013
This reflected the message that was written on the whiteboard in the locker room as the players go on an almost weeklong break.
Message on white board in Lakers locker room: “Recharge your battery. Come back ready to play!!!!!”
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 15, 2013
The Lakers will have a tough challenge in front of them when they return to action on Wednesday against the Boston Celtics. With all the obstacles placed in front of this team, the Lakers will have the opportunity to show the basketball community what they are capable of.
