Kobe Bryant has been shooting blanks and throwing up air balls lately, compounded by the fact that the Lakers are winless until recently when the team hacked out a win over the Brooklyn Nets, 104–98.
Bryant came out with perhaps his most credible performance for the season with 18 points after struggling in the early goings of the 2015–16 NBA season. Could this be the start of Bryant's resurgence? Possibly.
Of course, the Lakers are more than just Bryant. The Lakers are hoping that their young core players mature quickly, although such hasn't been the case as of late. Not too long ago, Bryant bared that he was taking a back seat to allow the young turks to develop but the question is up to when can the Black Mamba hold back.
By doing so, the Lakers have not panned out and the other players have not risen to the challenge. Head coach Byron Scott has shown his frustration so it may just be a matter of time before Bryant may have to go back on his word and start playing real Lakers ball.
Bryant's struggles are, of course, a result of injuries. His 2014–15 season was cut short when he went down with a torn rotator cuff, compounded by a leg injury during the preseason. In short, the 37-year-old Lakers star has not really fully gotten used to the regular NBA style of play, although all that could simmer down soon.
Bryant is in the final year of his contract and it remains to be seen what lies ahead for the high scoring guard. Even though still a long way off, Kobe is simply focused on finishing a National Basketball Association (NBA) season, something he has failed to do for the last two years.
On what he plans to do by season's end? He could retire. If not? Well, the Lakers are leaving the door open, although it won't be surprising if he will be offered one-year deals from thereon.
