KOBE'S COMEBACK!!

Kobe Bryant made his return to the NBA, Sunday night, at Staples Center in Los Angeles. He probably could have played two nights before, but did you really think Kobe, the Lakers and the NBA were going to let him come back on the road? In SACRAMENTO?

No, this return was destined for L.A., in the Lakers' arena, in front of the Lakers' fans. Kobe started the game to thunderous applause. His first game back since rupturing his achilles tendon eight months ago. Kobe connected on an assist, missed on a hook shot and lumbered down the court. You could hear the rust slowly scratching off of the junk yard dog. This wasn't practice anymore and, on this night, Kobe's growl was much greater than his bite. At times, he looked lost. Other times he resembled the Black Mamba, but just barely. What did you expect?

The most telling moment in Kobe's first game back came late in the first half. Two seconds left. Lakers down 51-47. Kobe had the ball. Everyone knew he would take the final shot. He always does! But when Kobe drove to the free throw line and went for his step back jump shot, DeMar Derozan's big hand rose up and slapped the shot away. Kobe landed awkwardly on the deck- on all fours - and the half was over.

You see, Kobe's mind and ego were telling him that nothing had changed in eight months. He was still the Mamba. He could still strike at will and dominate any NBA game at any time. Kobe's body was telling him a completely different story. He cannot coil and strike the way he used to. A lot has happened in the past eight months! He is not the Kobe that he used to be and it will take plenty of time before he even gets close. If ever. What did you expect?  

Age and injury are great equalizers, extremely humbling influences, especially on elite athletes. Kobe will get better, but how long will it take? The Lakers host Phoenix on Tuesday night and then face three back to back sets in a row that will be challenging for even the young, healthy players. 

Friday and Saturday at OKC and at Charlotte 
Monday, Dec 16  @ ATL and Tues Dec 17  @ Memphis
Friday December 20 v Minnesota and Sat Dec 21 @ Golden State

How much will Kobe play? How well will he play and how much rust will Kobe leave in his wake with each performance? We should know a whole lot more by Christmas time. Right now, not even Kobe has those answers but, at this point, that is to be expected.

**