Lakers Small On Wins, Big On Drama

Nov 12, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) against the New Orleans Pelicans during a game at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans defeated the Lakers 109-102. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Kobe Bryant Still Has It

Kobe Bryant has struggled mightily with his shot this season, shooting at just less than 38 percent from the field and 78 percent from the line. But his touch will return as he continues to improve his timing and his conditioning.

Even with the shot not quite where he would like it to be, he is still leading the league in scoring at 27.3 points per game. The fact that, after 19 years in the league, he is able to score 44 points in just three quarters as he did against Golden State on Sunday night speaks volumes about his talent and his work ethic.

Of course, it remains to be seen if he can maintain this pace 50, 60 or 70 games into the season. But Kobe is still a headline performer and well worth the price of admission.