NBA Rumors: Kobe Bryant Actively Doing His Part To Help Rebuild Lakers

Kobe Bryant had his time as a player with the Los Angeles Lakers, although most feel that at some point, the Black Mamba will still be tied up to the game of basketball. And it seems that the 40-year-old Lakers legend is still pretty much involved in Hollywood as he is mentoring the Lakers.

Bryant mentoring players hardly comes as a surprise since there are several NBA stars who have been hanging out with the five-time NBA champion. The list includes Kawhi Leonard, Jayson Tatum, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Doncic. From that list alone, one can just refer to the current season to see the mileage that each has had, particularly Leonard and Antetokounmpo, CBS Sports reported.

That list is expected to swell, although Bryant may want to prioritize the only NBA team he has played for during his 20-year stint in the NBA. The Lakers are in a spot right now and players, particularly the young ones, would benefit immensely with the guidance of the 13th overall pick of the 196 NBA Draft. And according to Lance Stephenson, Kobe is mentoring the team.

"Definitely, he always comes to practice," said Stephenson who is one of many upcoming Lakers free agents waiting to see if they will remain in Hollywood, TMZ Sports reported.

Moving forward, Kobe's influence on NBA stars could play a role in luring key stars this summer. Kyrie Irving is one name that has often popped up for the Lakers and now there are reports that the Black Mamba is trying to lure Uncle Drew to sign with the purple and gold in the offseason, ESPN reported.

Hence, Bryant becomes the second superstar allegedly trying to convince Irving to join the Lakers next season. The first one was LeBron James, Kyrie's former teammate with the Cleveland Cavaliers. After threshing things out, most are speculating that Irving could be open to joining forces with the three-time NBA champion to fill in the point guard void. This could materialize although there are several teams like the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks in play.

As for Stephenson, he could get a new contract next NBA season since he did play for new head coach Frank Vogel in the past with the Indiana Pacers. So far, only James and young players like Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram certain to return. New faces are expected to beef up the roster as they try to bounce back next NBA season.