Why Kobe Bryant Is Poised to Be a Dominant NBA Star Again

Kobe Bryant's two-year, $48.5 million extension has plenty of people scratching their heads. He's an aging superstar coming off a career-threatening Achilles injury. Though his contract is slightly discounted from his previous deal, he's still the highest-paid player in the league. The deal locks up the Lakers' cap maneuverability, stopping them from landing two marquee free agents at the end of this season.

The best general managers understand that contracts pay for future performance. Bryant, in no uncertain terms, is in decline. Is he still one of the league's best 2-guards? Absolutely. But that's due in part to the dwindling supply of shooting guards and a great emphasis on do-it-all small forwards with greater size and athleticism. 

Still, at age 34 last season, Kobe put up on his most efficient statistical seasons in years. His 1.05 points per possession (minimum 100 possessions) on post-ups ranked first in the league, per Synergy Sports (subscription required). His 1.144 points per possession on plays off screens (minimum 50 possessions) ranked fourth. 

He's always been a precise and intelligent passer when the mood strikes. He rebounds his position. He might not have the legs to play defense for 48 minutes, but he can lock up his man for spurts of a few possessions at a time.

His Achilles injury last season threw all of that into question. Would Bryant be able to return to his previous form? How would his game change due to the injury? 

But that's the thing about Kobe Bryant: His game is always evolving. It's the mark of a great player, willing to adapt with age and style your repertoire to your limitations. At the beginning of his career, Bryant was all about athleticism and ball-handling. Clearly, the former has disappeared with time. Now, his game is crafty and deliberate.

And that's why Kobe, out of every NBA player, is the most likely to return to form after a se...

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