This morning, it was confirmed by Los Angeles Times writer Mike Bresnahan that the Lakers have not opened contract negotiations with Kobe Bryant. Despite Bryant stating numerous times that he will retire a Laker and wants to win his sixth championship, many are still wondering if he is willing to make a sacrifice.
Bryant is eligible for a new contract starting at $32 million, but for those who have closely followed his career, he has had to made sacrifices in route to five championships. This time around, Bryant will need to make a financial sacrifice.
Last offseason, Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett took significant paycuts. While both are still effective for their respective ages, Duncan and Garnett re-signed with their teams for three years in the $30 million range. If Kobe does the same, it will allow the Lakers to sign two top-level free agents next summer.
With a history of sacrifice and a realistic opportunity to win more championships next summer, Kobe will find a way to meet the organization half way and retire with the Lakers with more rings.
Lakers Nation News
Lakers News: Gary Vitti ‘Wasn’t Real Happy’ With Kobe’s High Drive
Kobe Bryant, Lakers Have Not Opened Contract Negotiations
Lakers News: Gary Vitti Talks About Toughest Season Of Career
Lakers News: Trainer Gary Vitti Wants Nash’s Minutes Reduced
Shaquille O’Neal Becomes Minority Owner Of Sacramento Kings
Lakers News
Kobe Bryant’s Future With Lakers After This Season Is Up In The Air [LA Times]
Jeanie Buss Felt Betrayed By Lakers [ESPN]
Lakers Trainer Suggests Fewer Minutes For Steve Nash [NBCSports]
Duke’s Kelly Ready For Lakers Training Camp [Durham Herald Sun]
Shaq Will Mentor DeMarcus Cousins For Sacramento Kings [USA TODAY]
NBA News
Michael Jordan’s “Flu Game” Nikes To Be Auctioned Off [ProBasketballTalk]
Report: DeMarcus Cousins Near Contract Extension With Kings [ProBasketballTalk]
NBA May Have Heat, Nets Wear Nicknames On Jerseys [Sacramento Bee]
Sources: NBA Nowhere Near Agreeing To HGH Policy [CBSSports]
Heat Add Point Guard Larry Drew II To Camp Roster [Sun-Sentinel]