Kobe Bryant has dominated the NBA for the past 11 seasons as a Los Angeles Laker. After 3 championship victories and numerous all-star selections, the future hall of fame shooting guard is ready to find a new home. After losing Shaquille O’Neal in 2004 the Lakers have been eliminated in the first round of the playoffs since. After a controversial off season about trade rumors the Lakers organization and Bryant came to an agreement that they wouldn’t speak to the media about the situation. An article written by Howard Beck The New York Times entitled ”It’s Show-and-Tell Time For Bryant and the Lakers,” trade discussion are fueled anew due to the owner of the Lakers (Jerry Buss) controversial comments. Beck quotes Buss in saying, ’”I would certainly listen to offers, At anytime I think you have to do that with anybody.”‘ This quote shows the blatant disrespect the Lakers owner showed toward his superstar, in speaking on the matter they both agreed not to address the media about. Kobe responded to the comment by not speaking to reporters on the matter, and sitting out for three practices. This attitude changed after rumors that Bryant cleaned out his locker were spread, Bryant spoke to the media and acknowledge that he was bothered by Buss’s comments. Kobe Bryant is one of the most feared and respected players in the NBA. For the owner of the team he has done so much for to break an agreement shows no class, and Bryant has the right to be angry with the organization.
