As his presence both prevents them from entering a full rebuild and costs the team $25 million in cap space.

Some have even argued that with Kobe refusing to take on a lesser role, the Lakers would be better off without him. It’s accepted that the Lakers are trying to rebuild a team that is both competitive enough for Kobe to stay and play with, but also set up to carry on past his potential departure. Adding to the intrigue is that nobody else around the league seems to know his plans either. Bryant’s contract does end at the conclusion of this season, but while he’s talked about his inevitable retirement, he’s remained silent about officially confirming it. This display of devotion to Kobe is interesting in that there’s no official indication that this is Kobe’s final season. The only other player prominently featured with Kobe is Michael Jordan, though Tim Duncan makes a background cameo. This years Media Guide cover features a 35 picture montage of Bryant, from his early days with the team, through All Star appearances, the Olympics, and all five championships. However with less than a week until the regular season begins, the Los Angeles Lakers are not taking any chances, particularly when it comes to their 2015-16 Media Guide, which pays proper tribute to Bryant whether he plays past this season or not. Entering his 20th season in the NBA, Kobe Bryant has not made a decision on whether or not it will be his final season.

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