Kobe Bryant Rumors: Should the LA Lakers Star Head to Turkey?

Although there are NBA top talents like LeBron James and Amar'e Stoudemire who say they are not interested in playing overseas, it seems like Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant might be headed over sooner than later.

Rumors are that Turkish team Besiktas is talking with Bryant about the possibility of playing with them.

Yet, is that necessarily the intelligent move for Bryant? Is it in his best interest?

The NBA lockout has continued to linger on, as it is becoming more and more evident that the players union and the owners won't come to an agreement on the Collective Bargaining Agreement before the start of the 2011-2012 season. As a result, you have players like Bryant wanting to play basketball elsewhere.

Playing overseas certainly has it's benefits for a player like the Black Mamba.

For one, it keeps Bryant in shape and helps him to continue playing at a high level. Although the NBA lockout has provided rest for players, it has also prevented players from getting out and playing competitive basketball. Bryant would be able to continue to work on his game, as well as make slight improvements and adjustments in different areas of his game.

Not to mention, signing a deal overseas means more money for Bryant. Although fans would say a guy like Bryant doesn't need the money, it's surely an incentive to play basketball. Deron Williams will reportedly make around five million dollars to play one year with Besiktas.

Bryant could also explore other leagues like the Italian and Spanish leagues as well, as both feature top-notch talent. Playing with Besiktas however, would give Bryant the opportunity to play alongside Williams.

On the other hand, if Bryant made the move to play overseas, it could prove to be a detrimental move on his part, as it could raise the possibility of a potential injury that could roughen up relations between Bryant and the Lakers organization.

Keeping Bryant healthy is a must in the eyes of the Lakers organization, and a move to play overseas in Turkey or any country would have the team infuriated. Bryant might be staying in shape and continuing to work on his game, but the bottom line is he also becomes that much more susceptible to injury.

Also, for a player like Bryant who is entering the end of his prime, rest might be a crucial factor and a big-time benefit. He has become more injury prone over the years and could use the time off to help keep his body intact when the NBA starts back up again.

Yet, ultimately the positives outweigh the negatives in the case of Bryant. If Bryant wishes to play overseas, then he probably should. Bryant knows whats best for Bryant, as it seems as though Bryant wants to keep himself active and improving as a basketball player.

There is no wrong way to go here. Though, if Bryant wants to listen to offers overseas, he should. Over the years as a player in this league, Bryant has more than earned the right to flirt with the possibility.

Would it be the smarter decision for the Black Mamba if he were to play basketball overseas?

Probably.

Luis Batlle is a Featured Columnist with Bleacher Report and specializes in NBA (Boston Celtics), NFL, International Soccer and Tennis.

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