Even though the Lakers have struggled this season, Bryant has complete faith in his team and its ability to reach the postseason. Los Angeles has played very well as of late, but they still have problems against the upper echelon teams. Nevertheless, the Lakers are making progress and it seems like the players are finally beginning to figure each other out.
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Bryant spoke to Sports Illustrated and he talked about the current state of the Lakers.
SI: Can you get this done? And is it hard that after winning five championships you’re battling to make the playoffs?
Bryant: It’s not a question of if we make the playoffs. We will. And when we get there, I have no fear of anyone — Oklahoma City, San Antonio, Denver … whoever. I have zero nervousness about that.
The Lakers have had very little success against the competitive teams in the Western Conference, but that is not thwarting Bryant from trusting this roster. Talent wise, the Lakers can compete with any team in this league and it’s just a matter of piecing the puzzle together.
Los Angeles opened the second half of the season with a win over its arch rival Boston Celtics on a night in which the team honored the late and great Jerry Buss. The Lakers dominated the Celtics from the opening tip and everyone is hoping they can continue to perform at a high level moving forward.