After Kobe Bryant passed Michael Jordan for third on the NBA’s all-time scoring list against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Kevin Durant had high praise for the five-time champion and his one-time Olympic teammate.
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With the Los Angeles Lakers set to host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday, Kobe was asked if he has recruited Durant to come to the Lakers when he becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2016 via Mark Medina of the Los Angeles Daily News:
Kobe: "No, I think we know each other pretty well. I don't think it's a discussion that you have in terms of a free agent coming here…"
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) December 18, 2014
Kobe…"It's more understanding how to play w/ each other."
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) December 18, 2014
With the 8-17 start for the Lakers, the front office has been looking to make improvements to the roster. While the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets are considered frontrunners for Rajon Rondo, the Lakers recently made an offer which included Steve Nash’s expiring contract and numerous draft picks for the All-Star point guard.
While the Lakers are expected to miss the playoffs for the second consecutive season, it has been previously reported that the team is looking to sign Durant in 2016 when Kobe is expected to retire. Although the Lakers may potentially lose this year’s draft pick to the Phoenix Suns if it does not land in the top-five, Los Angeles has positioned themselves with ample cap space to pursue major free agents in the next couple of years.
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