The main topic of discussion was the rise of the Clippers and the battle between the two teams in Los Angeles this season. Dan Patrick touched on the playoff atmosphere between the two teams with Kobe agreeing and using the hype of Lob City to motivate the team. There is no doubt that the Clippers will be a force to be reckoned with from here on out for the Lakers in the Pacific division, but they proved who was the best team in L.A. with the big win on Wednesday at Staples Center.
Another topic of discussion was Andrew Bynum and any comparisons Kobe might have with the up-and-coming center, and his rise to superstardom in the NBA. Kobe believes that he and Bynum have one thing in common with the drive to prove themselves. The league’s leading scorer also went on to say that he doesn’t think that Bynum needs to be “handled” or “motivated” in any way.
Dan Patrick also mentioned the off-the-court distractions this season with constant trade rumors and the potential of acquiring Dwight Howard or Chris Paul, and trading away Pau Gasol. Kobe said that the one thing about being in L.A. and playing for the Lakers is there is always a story. It would be awkward or unfamiliar if there wasn’t anything going on or no rumors circulating around the Lake Show.
The Black Mamba was also asked about Pau Gasol getting posterized by Blake Griffin recently and whether or not they tease the Spaniard. Kobe didn’t hesitate to say:
“You have to. That’s the kind of group we are. You have to have thick skin to be in our locker room and play on our team. Because we’re gonna tease you, we’re gonna ride you. We were teasing him during the next timeout.”
After hearing this interview, Kobe Bryant seemed to be in good spirits and happy about the direction the Los Angeles Lakers are headed with the playoffs just weeks away. Kobe is still nursing a sore shin and might need some added rest once the team has a secure grip on their seed in the Western Conference, but in the meantime the Lakers are in a great position moving forward with a content superstar in Kobe Bryant.