First, let us give his offense its due respect. Right now, Kobe Bryant has the highest true shooting percentage (a stat that incorporates threes and free throws) of his career. Keep in mind, Bryant is 34 years old and has quite the illustrious career.
Right now, Kobe is sixth in league PER and his win share average is the highest its been since 2007-2008, when he won the MVP. Bryant's PER is actually a smidge higher than it was in that MVP year, back when he was 29 years old.
In theory, this season should be celebrated. Bryant appeared to be on the downslope after submitting the worst true shooting performance of his career last season. He's made a miraculous bounce back from worst to best, in his 17th season.
Perhaps if Dwight Howard was healthy enough to compensate for everyone on defense, Bryant would be getting that credit. Praise is just hard to come by when L.A. sinks further and further below .500. Plaudits are difficult to find when the Lakers rank in the bottom third of defensive teams.
To be sure, Bryant's defense has been abysmal this season. You can practically see a video game energy box above his head, expending energy on offense, and filling back up to full strength while he's on the defensive end.
Certain fans will cite that Kobe has had his moments when guarding opposing players. This is true, and his D on Kyrie Irving is a testament to that:
That's eye-catching and cool, but the problem is that so much of defense is just the subtle adherence to one's responsibilities. Kobe Bryant is floating away from his man off the ball, and often gambling on steals. This results in penetration and easy baskets...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
