"We are extremely pleased that we were able to reach an agreement and come to terms on the extension at this time," said Lakers general manger Mitch Kupchak. "Kobe has been a cornerstone of the Lakers for well over a decade, helping to lead us to four NBA championships and in the process developing into one of the greatest players in basketball history."
The 31-year-old shooting guard is currently in his 14th season with the team, and when the deal expires he will be nearly 36.
Ever since Shaq was traded to the Miami Heat following the ’03-’04 season, Kobe has been given the keys and put in the driver's seat of one of the most decorated franchises in NBA history.
Up until today, Kobe has responded perfectly while cruising along victory lane. Over the past six seasons, the Lakers have accumulated a record of 207-121 (.631)
In ’06, he managed to score a mind-boggling 81 points against the Toronto Raptors, second only to Wilt Chamberlain’s 100-point performance back in ‘62. Later, in ’08, he won the league MVP, yet fell short of a championship when his Lakers lost to the Celtics in the Finals.
Despite the setback, he bounced back the following year and led the Lakers to their 16th NBA title.
This season, he’s averaging 27.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists this season, and is, once again, an MVP candidate.
More importantly, the team is the favorite to get back to the promised land, where they would have the chance to repeat as champions.
Even if they don’t so, the franchise has set itself up for success in the near future.
In December, the team locked up Gasol by signing h...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
