Call Kobe Bryant the voice of the people and a defender of the weak. After the Lakers beat the Trail Blazers Monday, Bryant explained to TNT’s Cheryl Miller why he defended Pau Gasol after the Lakers’ loss Sunday.
“I just basically said what he wanted to say, but can’t say,” Kobe explained. “I felt it was important for him to know that I have his back. We’ve been through so many battles. Even though it’s part of the business, guys that you’re in the fox hole with, it’s important for each other to know that we support each other.”
Kobe has a strong enough standing with the organization where he can feel comfortable publicly confronting management. He used his status to defend a teammate in a commendable way. GM Mitch Kupchak says he will continue to explore trades anyhow, but you have to respect the way Kobe spoke up for Gasol. Now it’s up to Pau to play his best during the tough time.
