ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Five thoughts after the Lakers ended the preseason with a win over the Jazz.
1. It was a busy day around Lakers headquarters and the Honda Center Friday as the Purple and Gold ended its exhibition schedule with a 4-4 record, much improved from the past two seasons. In 2011 they had a two-game exhibition season because of to the work stoppage and last season was an unmitigated disaster as they went 0-8, a big factor in Mike Brown losing his job after a 1-4 start.
Earlier Friday, Lakers Vice President of Basketball Operations Jim Buss told ESPNLos Angeles.com that Kobe Bryant would retire in a Lakers uniform, ending speculation that Bryant would walk at the end of the season. Of course, anything can happen, but at the Honda Center Friday night, Buss nodded affirmatively with a big grin when asked if Bryant was staying in L.A.
He said he spoke out because he wanted Lakers fans to know that if Bryant's healthy, he'll finish his Hall-of-Fame career with the club.
2. Following the win over Utah, the team released forward Marcus Landry, leaving the roster at 15, including Bryant. Obviously Bryant won't be ready for Tuesday's opener against the Clippers, however, coach Mike D'Antoni has a deep, versatile team to help carry him through until Bryant's return. It allows him to go with speed, power or both.
You'll likely see Pau Gasol, Jordan Hill and Chris Kaman on the floor at the same time when the Lakers want to make it physical. You could also see Steve Nash, Steve Blake and Nick Young in the lineup when D'Antoni wants to run an opponent off the floor -- which is his preferred style of basketball.
"We're all ready to go," Young said after Friday night's win. "I know the atmosphere is going to be great, and I can't wait for us to play and see where we're at."
3. It's incredible to hear how many people are already discounting Bryant's ability to make it back to the physical condition he was in before tearing his Achilles. It's hard to understand why, since he's one of the elite athletes to ever play in the NBA. And his determination to once again capture the greatness he brought to his first 17 seasons certainly wasn't torn along with his tendon. So, expect the Mamba to keep attacking until he just can't do it anymore, which won't be anytime soon.
4. Bryant has been extremely smart about his rehab so far. Reporters and fans said from minute one that Kobe would bust through the rehab, end up having setbacks, and miss most of the season. Again, they underestimated the how Bryant treats his body and his competitive nature. He won't be kept off the court any longer than absolutely necessary, and has followed physical therapist's workouts in order to prevent a possible aggravation or re-tear of the Achilles, which literally could end his career. Now, it's just a matter of him,and the Lakers, having enough confidence in the Achilles to turn it loose.
5. One of the greatest basketball players, coaches and executives passed away Friday. Longtime Laker Bill Sharman died Saturday after suffering last week. He was also one of the nicest human beings to ever walk this planet.
Rest in peace, Bill. You brought joy to a lot of people's lives.
