Wow. Was anyone expecting that? I don't think so.
After the Lakers sent Luke Walton, Jason Kapono and a 2012 first-round pick to Cleveland for point guard Ramon Sessions and forward Christian Eyenga, it appeared as though the team would try to complete the widely discussed three-team deal with Minnesota and Portland to bring Michael Beasley to Los Angeles and send Steve Blake to Portland.
Instead, in a deadline-day shocker, the Lakers opted to deal Fisher. Regardless of the reasoning for the move, it's a decision that elicits many emotions and memories from Laker faithful.
While Fisher had brief stops in Utah and Golden State before returning to L.A., it was widely thought that he would finish out his career in a Lakers uniform. In addition to his unwavering professionalism and clutch shooting, Fisher played another vital part for the Lakers. He was the Bryant's biggest confidant on the team.
When Fisher re-signed with the Lakers in 2010, Ramona Shelburne of ESPN LA described the special bond the Los Angeles superstar has with its former point guard:
Bryant came into the league with Fisher back in 1996, and has won five championships with him and none without him. They are great friends in the way that only men who have grown up together, fought together, lost together and won together could be.
Still, during their 11 seasons together as teammates, Bryant probably has had more arguments with Fisher than almost any other player.
Face to face, voices raised, in front of the entire team, but behind closed doors on the practice court.
