Bryant suffered a season-ending knee injury and will be forced to watch the postseason from the sidelines. At the time Kobe went out, the Lakers still had a few games remaining on their schedule and needed to win them all in order to reach the playoffs.
It was a short two game week for the Lakers, but they needed a victory in both of them to get in the position they are right now. As we prepare of the 2013 Playoffs, here is the final week in review of the regular season.
Lakers Nation Game Recaps:
The Los Angeles Lakers faced the Spurs one last time in the regular season, and without Bryant in the lineup, not many people knew what to expect from the team. It was a must win for the Lakers and to the delight of everyone in Staples Center, the team came out with toughness and tenacity. Dwight Howard took on the leadership role for the Lakers and guided the team to a 91-86 victory.
Los Angeles claimed a spot in the Western Conference playoffs before their final game of the regular season, but it had a chance to move up the standings with a win over the Rockets. The Lakers had the opportunity to become the seventh seed with a victory on the final night of the season, and the Kobe-less Lakers once again showed grit against a tough opponent. In an overtime thriller at Staples Center, the Lakers claimed a 99-95 win.
Lakers Nation News:
The Lakers have announced their 2013-14 pre season schedule.
Steve Nash hopes to play in the Lakers’ opener on Sunday.
Jeanie Buss was named the new Managing Governor for the Lakers.
The Cavaliers are reportedly interested in signing Mike Brown.
Mike D’Antoni was named Western Conference coach of the month.
Dwight Howard still has confidence in the Lakers.
Mitch Kupchak said Mike D’Antoni will be back next season.
Howard became the youngest player in NBA history to grab 9,000 rebounds.
Phil Jackson may make a return to coaching.
Jordan Hill offered an update on his injury.
D’Antoni talks about offensive adjustments now that Kobe is out of the lineup.
Sources say Howard will re-sign with the Lakers.
The Lakers signed Andrew Goudelock.
Bryant had successful surgery on his achilles and will be out six to nine months.