I don't doubt Kobe's determination. But I think he's shot. Missing this amount of time due to injuries at his age....I think he's nearly done.
And it's not as if Howard would have stayed if Jackson was the coach last year. Howard is a head case prima donna and simply did like playing with Kobe. He was gone no matter what.
This is going to be a painful rebuilding process with Kobe in the final stages of his career. It's not going to be pretty. They've had their time in the sun. And now it's over and it will be for years, sorry to say. Just my .02. It's not like Lebron or Carmelo are coming to L.A. Sure, the draft will be talented but there's no guarantee that they land a marquee talent to build around while Kobe is still relevant.
The Lakers will be reminicent of the Wizards of 2002-2003 with an ageing Michael Jordan and a crappy supporting cast.
I don't know what will happen with Kobe, but he has been cleared to resume full-time workouts. He's going to have six months to prep. If anyone can come back, it's him. And I don't know why you have hate for someone who just wants to win. He reminds of me of the old days of the NBA, where players came to play every night.
I think Howard would have stayed if Phil was the coach. Phil is a master. The fact he won three rings with Shaq and Kobe and their personalities/drama is pretty incredible.
I don't think the rebuilding process will be that painful. LA is still one of the top franchises in the NBA. They will not have trouble attacking free agents. And LA will have at least a top six lottery pick this year.
I have no idea who is coming, but if you look at Kupchak's history, I think he's going to do fine.
Remember Kupchak convinced Malone and Payton to basically play for free and they came within three games of a championship, even with Kobe's rape trial drama.
Kupchak also traded for Howard, and even though Howard left, it was a good trade because Bynum subsequently left the reservation.
Kupchak also traded for Pau, a year after the Lakers were one of the worst teams in the NBA.
Kupchak traded for Ariza who helped win a championship. He then signed Artest/World Peace, who helped win a championship.
Kupchak traded for Chris Paul, before Stern stepped in and vetoed. I hope Stern has chronic diarrhea in his retirement.
You really doubt what Kupchak can do? I have no idea what he has planned, but if history is a guide, it will be good.