Kobe Bryant has said the Los Angeles Lakers have an "interesting off season looming." Dwight Howard's impending free agency is undoubtedly the biggest question, but so is Bryant's ability to return to form after suffering a torn Achilles tendon. Bryant told ESPN earlier this week that he planning to return for the season opener. He also ruled out playing in the 2016 Olympics, which raises the question of just when Bryant will retire.
"I hope so," Bryant told ESPN when asked about returning for the 2013-14 season opener. "That's the challenge. With the tendon, there's really only but so much you can do. There's a certain amount of time that they deem necessary for the tendon to heal where you don't overstretch it and now you never get that spring back.
"So you just have to be patient, let the tendon heal and then when that moment comes when they say, 'OK, we can take off the regulator so to speak and now it's on you to train as hard as you can to get back to where you want to be,' that's going to be a good day."
Achilles tendon tears are incredibly difficult to return from. If Bryant is able to return for the season opener in October, there's no telling what shape he'll be in. His age, 34, doesn't help either. With his contract expiring after next season, the question of retirement looms.
Bryant has already dismissed the idea of retiring this season, but even he conceded that it would be "soon."
One thing he has ruled out, however, is the 2016 Olympics.
Bryant's career is winding down. It's unlikely another long-term contract is in his future. Will he retire after his contract expires next year? Will he want to? Would the Lakers consider re-signing their star, even to a short-term deal, or will it be time for the organization to look to the Post-Kobe era?
These questions are around the corner. Howard's decision this summer will play a huge part in the Lakers' future. One thing is certain ̶ given Bryant's work ethic and history, if he says he's aiming to return for the season opener you can pretty much count on it happening.
