Sports

Lakers Sign Kobe for 2 More Years

Let us know what you think of the move.

Basketball's highest-paid player, Kobe Bryant, on Monday signed on with the Lakers for two additional years.

Per team policy, terms of the contract were not released; however, ESPN.com reported a source told them the deal is worth $48.5 million.
The source told ESPN.com Bryant and the team "arrived at the salaries so that the team will have the financial flexibility to pursue one top free agent on the market next summer," according to the site's article.

Bryant, 35, has been an NBA champion five times in his 17-year career. He's been selected as an NBA All Star 15 times, was selected as the NBA MVP in 2007-08, and won the NBA Finals MVP award in 2008-09 and 2009-10.
“We’ve said all along that our priority and hope was to have Kobe finish his career as a Laker, and this should ensure that that happens," said Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak. "To play 20 years in the NBA, and to do so with the same team, is unprecedented, and quite an accomplishment.

Originally acquired by the Lakers from the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Vlade Divac on July 11, 1996 after being selected by the Hornets with the 13th overall pick in the 1996 NBA Draft, Bryant is the Lakers all-time leading scorer and currently ranks 4th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.

The Laker's star, however, has not played since April, when he tore an Achilles tendon.

Is this a good move for the Lakers? At 35, do you think Kobe can stay healthy and play well for two more years? Who would you like to see the Lakers pick up as a free agent this summer? —Tell us in the comments!


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