Kobe Shows Why He’s the Best

Kobe did it again. Throughout the first quarter and a half Kobe was not being Kobe. The Orlando magic, specifically Courtney Lee, did a great job containing Kobe. It was the home team that was taken aback as the Magic built a 7 point lead early in the second. Kobe would have none of that, taking over to eventually score 18 points in the first half as the Lakers took a ten point half time lead. Bryant, after calling the Magic “resilient” after their comeback upset series against second seeded Boston and domination of top seeded Cleveland knew that a ten point lead would not be enough. Especially with the Magic being a team that lives and dies by the three. So all Kobe did was come out and score 18 points in the third (out of the Lakers’ 29) and helped his Lakers build as much as a 26 point lead.

Bryant’s performance along with the Magic’s dismal 30% field goal percentage was the perfect formula for a blowout. Every time the Magic showed any sign of life, Kobe would make a pretty move down the lane, a sweet assist, or a dagger shot that leaves the opposing team speechless as to how it went in. There is something different about Kobe this time around. Last year about this time he was relying too much on the soft Pau Gasol and the inconsistent Lamar Odom, as his Lakers got trounced by the Celtics in 6 games in the NBA Finals. This year Bryant has a different look in his eye. A look that should strike fear into the heart of the Magic personnel. The look says “I’m taking over-not going to be stopped-get out of my way-I don’t need Shaq to win-Black Mamba status”. If you dont believe him, just look at his performance last night. 40 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists in 38 minutes along with a 100-75 victory. Surprisingly, it was Kobe’s first career 40 point finals game, the 10th 40 point performance in his playoff career in total. However, that is all over with now. That was game one, a blowout by the end of the third. Imagine what hes got up his sleeve if the game is close in one of the upcoming games? Time will tell, but Kobe is not letting number four get away as he proves he is the best player in the world.

Will Kobe get his 4th ring? Tell us what you think!