Having spent the entirety of his 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, Kobe Bryant is forever etched in franchise lore. No matter the days, years or decades that will pass, the five-time NBA champion will remain synonymous with the Lakers.
For as much as Bryant dedicated himself to the sport and team, whether playing through injuries or putting in countless hours in the gym, he’s managed a relatively clean break since retiring at the end of the 2015-16 season. Only on occasion has he returned, primarily for marquee events.
When the Lakers hired Rob Pelinka, Bryant’s former agent, as general manager, there was widespread speculation and anticipation Pelinka would bring on his close friend in some capacity.