Lakers "win", but suffer painful blow that symbolizes this dissapointing season

As I saw Kobe fall the first time as he drove the lane holding his knee, he didn't come back like I've been used to seeing him throughout his career. Then he again drew a foul and this time he limped across mid court, he now looked like someone who's body had finally taken it's toll, and you began to wonder how much more can he give. With the Lake show falling down by 9 and having to deal with a scorching young Golden State backcourt, Mamba like so many times before would hit 2 big 3s and lead a charge yet again. Yet another heavy minutes for the 17 year future hall of famer, yet another come from behind fight when other teams are resting their players, and yet another view of Kobe's face breathing heavy and seeming to run on fumes but refusing to stop until the last ounce of effort is exhausted, then the Great Mamba fell for the third time, and this time he would not just shake it off. For all who have followed Kobe, like I have, which is his whole career and watched him play about 95% of his games since 2000, we all knew if Kobe could not even move, it was bad, very, very bad. With the post season still not decided and the game tied, the old, beat up Lakers had to go against the younger and skilled GS Warriors without their legendary leader.

Thankfully they pulled it out. The Spaniard continued his recent All-Star effort and finished with a triple double, the hopeful franchise future Superman, led them with 28 pts, only 7 boards but did hit 14/22 freebies. But after such an emotional battle, the concern was still the extent of their leader's injury. So now with 2 games left and Mamba done for the year, what then? Can they win without him? Sure they can, and I think they will. But what's the reward? Extending the playoff appearances of this storied franchise? Saving face on this disappointing season? The Lakers regardless of their record or their play, were still a team one did not bet against. Not when they employ a player who can go into myth like scoring runs and can single handedly win games, except he won't be there. The usual #24 will not be there to take the last shot, score a bucket when most needed, or hit multiple difficult shot to tear the momentum from the opponent. No, instead Mamba will be in street clothes yelling instructions and aching to get back on the floor, but will it be enough? Not likely. Let's be honest, even hard core fans understand that who ever the Lakers play will probably dismiss them quickly and now begins the question of the future, where do we go from here? First thing's first, keeping D12. Now when will Mamba come back, cause let's be serious, if anyone really thinks this is the way Kobe is writing his farewell, you're just a hopeful hater. Perhaps Kobe will no longer score 20+ points per game again, but he will score,  and he will have big games, and he will wear #24 for the Lakers once again. Whether the Lakers win a title with Kobe again or not, rest assure that Mamba will leave the game at his own merit. The question is who will his team mates be, and how well or bad will they be holding ship until the captain returns? We Shall see.

As a Laker fan for 26 years, this is second only to Magic announcing he was retiring due to contracting HIV in low points. It is an extremely bad taste but typical finishing in this crappy season. But I have faith in the Lakers and whether they fade into pretenders, they won't be there for long. The Lake Show will always bounce back and I will be here cheering them all the way. My prayers go out to not only one of my favorite Lakers but one of my favorite players in general. I wish you a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing the game when they announce your return to the line up. Outstanding season Mamba, you are truly one of the greats. Go Lakers.