Kobe Bryant had so many memorable games with the Los Angeles Lakers, some of which get overlooked.
It’s now been almost four months since the tragic death of Kobe Bryant in a helicopter crash. While the fact that he’s no longer in this world has sunk in, his greatness and his contributions to the Los Angeles Lakers haven’t been forgotten.
However, when it comes to some of his greatest performances, some may have been either forgotten or not remembered very well. A player of his caliber tends to have so many that some simply aren’t at the forefront of our long term memories.
We know the ones that get the most publicity: The 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors. The 62-point game where he outscored the eventual Western Conference champion Dallas Mavericks in three quarters. His final game where he poured in 60 points against the Utah Jazz.
But in my opinion, there are several others that aren’t talked about enough. Unlike the ones above, they came during the NBA Playoffs, and most of them came in years where the Lakers either won the NBA championship or at least reached the NBA Finals.
Here are just five of them that today seem somewhat obscure. All came in high-leverage, high-pressure situations in the playoffs or championship series where the Lakers were facing a tough, talented opponent.
Not only do they exemplify Bryant’s great talent and ample athleticism, but even more, they are great examples of his iron-clad determination, resourcefulness and will to win.