The numbers are there, almost to gaudy to overlook. But despite impressive statistics and equally impressive performances from Lebron James this season, Kobe may have delayed what many including myself had been saying...that the torch and title of "Best NBA Player" has already been passed to King James.
We saw a new Kobe in the NBA Finals this year. A different Kobe than even what we saw against Utah, Houston and Denver in the first 3 rounds. I don't know if it was the taste of a 4th ring being closer than its been in awhile, or maybe some horrible memories from last years Game 6 in Boston. But, whatever the change was, we were able to see Kobe Bryant take over a series with more than just scoring (which he still did plenty of).
Kobe's career tends to be defined by his ability to morph into a lethal offensive assassin, but in the 2009 Playoffs, we saw him open up his game on a consistent basis dishing to teammates, fighting for rebounds and showing why he is considered the best closer currently in the game. The Lakers were labeled the favorite to win the Championship early on this year and although the road was filled with uneventful, lackadaisical and sometimes pitiful performances even in the playoffs, Kobe & Co. stepped up down the stretch, won close games including 2 overtime victories and closed out a hot shooting and streaky Orlando Magic team.
Congrats to the Lakers on a 15th NBA ring...keep this team together and we may see this franchise pass the Celtics in the next few years.
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