There's genuine reason for debate, but in the end, the Lakers deserve their allotted amount of nationally televised games.
The Lakers are entering a difficult period, as Kobe Bryant hopes to recover from a career-threatening Achilles tendon injury, and both he and Pau Gasol will be free agents after this season. It's also well-known that there are questions surrounding head coach Mike D'Antoni's ability to lead.
Even still, the NBA's decision makes sense.
The Lakers may not be the best team in the NBA, but that's hardly the focus here. The Lakers deserve every shred of attention that they're receiving, and there's more than one reason why.
The value of storylines shouldn't go unnoticed.
Kobe's Last Run in L.A.?
It's no secret that Kobe is attempting to come back from a career-threatening torn Achilles tendon. Even if he is to make a miraculous return and perform at an MVP-caliber level, there's one thing we must acknowledge—this could be Bryant's last run in Los Angeles.
Kobe is set to become a free agent in 2014, and the general consensus is that L.A. will re-sign him. The truth of the matter is, nothing is predictable come free agency, and with L.A. under new ownership, we may just see Bryant depart.
It's a terrifying thought to imagine Bryant in another jersey, but it's at least a possibility.
With this in mind, fans will inevitably tune in to watch Kobe as he puts on one last guaranteed push. Keep in mind, Bryant wasn't just good in 2012-13; he played as well as any other player in the NBA down the final s...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
