5 Reasons Why Kobe Bryant Isn't Ready to Pass the Torch to Andrew Bynum

Over the first two games of the 2012 NBA playoffs, a handful of captivating storylines have begun to unfold. From Russell Westbrook being the most consistent player of the Oklahoma City Thunder's young trio, to Chris Paul and the Los Angeles Clippers coming back from 24 points down in the fourth quarter, controversy has been at a premium.

But, of course, no one breeds controversy like that other L.A. team: the Lakers.

In Game 1 of Los Angeles' series with the Denver Nuggets, center Andrew Bynum recorded a triple-double the hard way, as he scored 10 points, hauled in 13 rebounds and tied a playoff record with 10 blocks. Game 2 offered very little to complain about, as he followed that historic performance with 27 points, nine rebounds and two blocks.

The Game 1 triple-double was the first for the franchise since Magic Johnson recorded one in 1991 (from CBS News). Not to be outdone by his young counterpart, however, Kobe Bryant was rather magnificent himself.

After struggling to score in the first half, Kobe Bryant was dominant in the third and fourth quarters, taking over his familiar role as closer. Bryant scored 23 of his 31 points in the second half and helped the Lakers control the pace for the victory in Game 1.

He outdid himself in Game 2, going off for 38 points while the rest of the Lakers struggled to put anything in the hoop.

The question has begun to make its rounds, however, about whose team the Lakers truly are. Even those who believe it is Kobe's have a final request that The Black Mamba turn over the reins to young Andrew Bynum.

It's a move that should not and will not happen. Here are five reasons why.

5. Scorer's Mentality

For those who criticize Kobe Bryant for constantly going for the basket when he has the ball in his hands—stop. It's what he's paid to do and the trait that every scorer in the NBA shares with him.

The only difference is how prolific Kobe Bryant is in that department and how polarizing he is as a figure.

Due to the fact that Bryant remains one of the best in the NBA in terms of scoring, it's hard to imagine he'll relieve himself of those duties in order to bring along Andrew Bynum. While he's displayed more trust in Bynum's abilities this season, he's also shown that he can still fill it up.

Kobe will be the one taking the shot when the game is on the line, and rightfully so.

4. Bynum's Immaturity

Whether you love Andrew Bynum or hate him, you simply cannot deny how many holes there are in his on-court character. Whether it's his poor body language, flagrant foul on J.J. Barea or consistently questionable play that sends him to the bench (per ESPN), there always seems to be something.

While Bynum's talent is that of a franchise player, he just isn't a mature enough player to lead the Lakers to a title. Not in a city like Los Angeles and not with players like Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol still playing at an elite level.

Kobe knows the feeling, as he was often criticized for similar flaws while winning titles with Shaquille O'Neal. As Bryant displayed, however, those qualities can be improved.

Just give it time.

3. The Pursuit of Glory

One more ring and Kobe Bryant is tied with Michael Jordan. Two more and he'll have passed the man who has always seemed to cast a shadow over our generation's greatest player.

You think that's not in the back of his mind?

Despite popular belief, Kobe Bryant has shown no reluctance in throwing the ball down low to Andrew Bynum, Pau Gasol or any other teammate. He's also shown that he's going to take over when his teammates are lacking. His average of 34.5 points in two postseason games this season is evidence of why he deserves that honor.

There's more evidence in the title rings that fill up one hand and the fact that two of those titles have come within the past three years.

And even more evidence in another NBA Finals appearance from four years ago.

Bynum may begin to get recognition in the conversation of "best center in the NBA," but don't think for a second that he's the focal point of the Lakers' potential title win. He must play his role, just as Kobe must play his. The only difference is Kobe Bryant's role is as a leader.

2. Until the Day He Retires

Maybe this title is misleading. When I wrote that Kobe Bryant was not ready to pass the torch, I meant to say that he never will. Not when he's actively playing the sport of basketball, that is.

When Michael Jordan announced his first, second and third retirements, he never anointed another player king. Instead, he went out on his own terms and remained the most respected player in the game. Why would Kobe Bryant do it any differently?

He wouldn't, he won't and he never will. He respects Andrew Bynum's talents but is far too fiery a competitor to take the backseat to any man.

Especially not on his own teammate.

1. Who Said Kobe Is Done?

In order to pass the torch, your career must be coming to a close or on the decline. Considering Kobe Bryant finished second in the NBA in scoring this season and is currently averaging 34.5 points per game on 49 percent shooting during the postseason, neither of those terms appear to be applicable.

Kobe Bryant has played quintessential team basketball. He's dumping the ball down low to Bynum and Pau Gasol and letting them go to work, finding open shooters on the perimeter and even allowing the team to get into a rhythm before taking his first shot. He's also been vocal on offense, defense and the bench.

On defense, his effort is at an all-time high. His shot selection has seen drastic improvement and his supposedly selfish play is gone. All of this means that he trusts his teammates to step up in every play and aid the franchise in winning a title.

Just don't think that he can't do it himself when they fail to do so.

While Bynum has been spectacular through two games, so has Kobe. Why pass the torch when you still have such a firm grip on it?