Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol led the Los Angeles Lakers to three-straight trips to the NBA Finals and won two championships along the way. Their chemistry on the court led to a devastating offensive attack that dominated the NBA for the better part of three seasons. So when Dwight Howard decided to take his talents to Houston, there was no need to panic. Bryant and Gasol have everything under control.
Gasol is the most skilled big man on the planet. People tend to forget that due to his reduced roll the last two seasons. Now with the departure of both Andrew Bynum and Howard, Gasol can show the world again why he is such a special basketball player.
As for Bryant, we all know his killer mentality when it comes to the game of basketball. The way Howard left the franchise will only throw gasoline on to the fire that burns within the Black Mamba. When he returns to the court next season, do not expect Bryant to be bashful. Regardless of what roster the Lakers put on the court next season, Bryant will try to get L.A. to another title by any means necessary.
The San Antonio Spurs proved last season that veteran stars in this league can still compete for titles. So when the Lakers step on to the court next season, do not be surprised if Bryant and Gasol are having monster seasons and L.A. is in the hunt as a true contender.
In the immortal words of Rudy Tomjanovich, “Never underestimate the heart of a champion.”
Haz Bey is a Los Angeles Lakers writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @Haz_Bey or “Like” him on Facebook.
