The Los Angeles Lakers have signed all-star guard Kobe Bryant to a 2-year contract extension.
General manager Mitch Kupchak put an end to the “Bryant going to another team” rumors when he made an official  announcement Monday morning.
“This is a very happy day for Lakers fans and for the Lakers organization,” Kupchak said in a statement. “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.”
The Lakers did not announce financial terms, but a source told ESPNLosAngeles.com’s Ramona Shelburne that the deal is worth $48.5 million.
Kobe, the fourth-leading scorer in NBA history, has yet to play this season as he continues his recovery from his torn Achilles tendon in April.
Bryant recently returned to practice and said that he could adjust his game and contribute something to his team right now, but would rather wait until he’s well enough to close out his entire 18th season.
Head Coach Mike D’ Antoni has said that Bryant will suit up and play whenever he’s ready.
Los Angeles is currently 7-7 this season without Bryant.
Source: Kobe’s deal: $23.5 mill ’14-15; $25 mill ’15-16
— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) November 25, 2013
