KEY POINTS

  • Lebron James believes the LA Lakers have what it takes to win the championship
  • Kobe Bryant's passing serves as an additional motivation for Lebron James and the LA Lakers
  • The LA Lakers are currently in first place in the Western Conference

The news of Kobe Bryant’s passing is still surreal for the world. The sudden loss of the all-time great is devastating for everyone. Kobe Bryant influenced everyone. Athletes, players, coaches, and even the average fan wished they had a little bit of Kobe Bryant in them.

Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality spearheaded a campaign of pushing oneself to be better. It meant striving for greatness in a consistent and focused pace until one ultimately reaches success.

For the 2020 Los Angeles Lakers, that success is winning the 2020 NBA Championship.

Lebron James recently shared that the LA Lakers have what it takes to bring back the Larry O'Brien trophy to Los Angeles. When asked about what his thoughts are on the current roster and if there are pieces that should be added, he confidently replied, “We have enough right now.”

Lebron James recently made history when he passed Kobe Bryant on the All-time NBA Scoring list. He even had a phone call with the Laker Legend hours before the tragic crash. It was a call of recognizing an amazing accomplishment as the Black Mamba congratulated the King. Kobe Bryant’s last tweet was also in support of Lebron James’ achievements.

In Lebron James’ tribute to Kobe Bryant, he shared that he promises to continue the legacy of what the five-time champion left behind. As a Los Angeles Laker, the challenge and expectations are high but Lebron James is determined to live up to what was left behind. “And it’s my responsibility to put this s**t on my back and keep it going!!” Lebron James said in his Instagram post.

The Los Angeles Lakers are currently first in the Western Conference with a 36-10-win loss record. They were originally slated to compete against fellow Los Angeles rival, the LA Clippers. That game was postponed by the NBA with respect to the recent passing of Kobe Bryant.

It’s been more than 24 hours since tragedy struck. With such devastating news, the LA Lakers are fueled to bring the Mamba Mentality for years to come.

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers plays a pre-season game in Shanghai in October 2019
LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers plays a pre-season game in Shanghai in October 2019 AFP / HECTOR RETAMAL