(Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)
As I don’t believe that Kobe doesn’t care about his image, I also don’t believe he doesn’t care about winning a ring without O’Neal. Doing so would cement his status as one of the greatest players of all-time—certainly top 10 and maybe the second best guard underneath his hero.
It would put to rest all the lingering questions about his supposed capability to sacrifice enough of his game as the top guy to carry a team to a championship. It would make him the nonpareil of the NBA, at least until LeBron wins his first ring.
One has to think that this matchup could not have worked out better for him. Kobe won’t get the chance to be embarrassed by the guy nipping at his heels in the Finals. Rather, he’ll face an Orlando team that, while battle-tested, is raw when it comes to this stage. He’s been sharing the ball better and yet still coming through big. He’s hungry and ready.
And this is what is at stake for Kobe Bean Bryant. With questions surrounding his team, father time catching up to him, and LeBron and Dwight Howard cresting in their primes, this is his last best chance at getting the fourth ring.
His legacy as an outstanding public citizen will forever be polarizing. His legacy as a basketball player will be one of sheer greatness.
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