Did Kobe Bryant sign his final contract as a Los Angeles Laker on Monday?
"Probably," said Bryant, speaking to reporters on Tuesday, the first time since signing his extension.
Bryant, still recovering from Achilles tendon surgery, inked a two-year extension worth a reported $48-50 million. He said, however, there was no negotiation with the Lakers, he just signed the piece of paper.
"The Lakers came up with a structure .... from my perspective, it was easy to accept," Bryant said. "I think we will be all right ... we have the ability to do something special.
"The Lakers, they stepped up to the plate, and took care of me. (It) makes me want to run through a wall for them (the Lakers). I want (to help) prove to everyone that they (the Lakers) are right, and everyone else is wrong.
Bryant has been practicing with the team, but is still unsure of when he will make his 2013-14 debut.
"(I'm) much closer ... I feel good, much, much stronger, ready to come back soon," Bryant said. "I don't know what today's date is, but I know how I am feeling and I'm feeling pretty strong."
Will Bryant, fourth on the NBA's All-Time scoring list, be willing to accept a reduced role and minutes?
"I'm ready to adapt. I'm willing and ready to adapt to whatever my body is telling me," Bryant said. "I'm comfortable with a minute limit ... the goal is to win a championship."
Bryant seemed in good spirits and also had some fun, taking several shots at ESPN (which ranked him as the 25th best player in the NBA) and joking with reporters.
