Utah Jazz

James Harden admits he asked Kobe for help making the playoffs

Published Apr. 11, 2016 1:33 a.m. ET

Jovan Buha

The Rockets picked up a much-needed win on Sunday, defeating the Lakers 130-110, and keeping their faint playoff hopes alive.

Following the game, James Harden was asked about what he and Kobe Bryant discussed while embracing afterward, and Harden confessed that he asked his soon-to-retired idol for help with making the playoffs:

Or course, Harden and the Rockets better not get their hopes up.

The Lakers and Jazz have played three times already this season, with Utah winning by 12, 17 and 48 points. Consequently, Utah will be the heavy favorites to win Bryant's final game ever, meaning the battle for the No. 8 seed will likely be determined before then.

The Jazz have one other game remaining -- vs. Dallas, who is also fighting to the make the playoffs -- while the Rockets visit Minnesota and then finish the season hosting Sacramento.

The Rockets (39-41) hold the tiebreaker over the Jazz (40-40) given their superior conference record (the season series is tied 2-2), but need to finish one game ahead of them because of the difference in record.

If Houston's playoff fate -- which would likely just be a sweep at the hands of the Warriors in the first round -- comes down to Bryant leading the Lakers to a shocking victory, they better start planning for an early offseason.

Jovan Buha covers the NBA for FOX Sports. Follow him on Twitter: @jovanbuha.