NBA Playoffs 2011: Burning Questions Facing Kobe Bryant and the LA Lakers

After one of the more intriguing regular seasons in recent memory, the 2011 NBA Playoffs are finally set to tip off this weekend.

There's no shortage of interesting story lines to keep track of, but, of course, all eyes will be on Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers as they set out on the quest to become the Lords of the Ring for the third year in a row.

And, as always, there is plenty of drama and intrigue surrounding the purple and gold now that the chase for the Larry O'Brien Trophy has begun anew.

With tougher competitors and more uncertainty surrounding their own roster than ever before, this year's road to the NBA Finals will be the most difficult yet for this group of Lakers.

Here are some of the most pressing concerns facing the Lake Show this spring. Their ability to answer them may very well determine whether the string of parades down Figueroa Street continues. 

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