Kobe Bryant will be a Los Angeles Laker for life.
Jim Buss, Lakers co-owner and executive vice president of basketball operations, said Friday that the organization is currently talking with Bryant’s representative on a contract extension. Buss made it clear that the Lakers want to get the deal done long before the five-time NBA champion becomes a free agent July 1.
“I want to put an end to any speculation that we would allow Kobe to become a free agent,” Buss told ESPN Friday night. “That’s not going to happen. Kobe is a top priority for us. He’s a Laker legend and always will be. I don’t think we’re done winning championships with him yet.
“[Lakers general manager] Mitch Kupchak and [Bryant’s agent] Rob Pelinka have been talking, but with him being hurt, it has slowed the process some. I don’t know when it’ll get done, but I have faith in Rob and Mitch to work things out.”
Bryant is in the last year of contract, where he will earn $30.5 million this season, the largest annual salary in the NBA.
Bryant is currently recovering from an Achilles tendon injury and doesn’t have a set return date yet.
