NBA: Ranking the Best Players In the Pacific Divsion
By Jack Hoang
2. Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers
December 25, 2012; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Kobe Bryant (24) reacts during the 100-94 victory against the New York Knicks at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
At the age 34, Kobe Bryant is still chasing championships. He is on a mission to pursue his sixth ring and he knows he has to be the greatest in the league in order to do so.
Even in his 17th season, Kobe was able to contend for the scoring title. He finished third in scoring with an impressive 27.3 points per game. Last season, Kobe was able to haul his troubled Lakers into the playoffs with his heroics and leadership. However, he was unable to play a single minute due to his season-ending injury (Torn Achilles).
It will take him up to nine months to fully recover from his injury, but you can never count out the Black Mamba.