Kobe Bryant said he might play after his current contract, which expires after next season. He also said he can’t see himself playing past this contract. He even admitted he might retire after this season.
But that waffling occurred before Kobe suffered a season-ending shoulder injury.
Sure, Kobe still plans to return next season.
But what about beyond?
Baxter Holmes of ESPN:
Kobe asked if he could envision himself playing beyond next season: "Yes, I could."
— Baxter Holmes (@Baxter) March 11, 2015
Kobe ever consider retiring? “Yeah, as soon as the doctor told me, I was like, Jesus Christ, man, I dont know if I can do another 9 months."
— Baxter Holmes (@Baxter) March 11, 2015
I asked Kobe about what he has to do to stay upright next season. Limiting minutes? Sitting out certain games? He didn’t mention either.
— Baxter Holmes (@Baxter) March 11, 2015
Kobe: "If something is going to go, it goes. Then it’s just, Father Time got me and there’s nothing else I can do about it."
— Baxter Holmes (@Baxter) March 11, 2015
How confident is Kobe that LAL builds contender while he remains w/ them?
— Baxter Holmes (@Baxter) March 11, 2015
"As confident as they are in me that I’ll be healthy next year."
I could envision Kobe playing after his current deal. I could also envision him never playing again.
I doubt Kobe knows what he’ll do after next season, and he has time to figure it out.
The big question: If Kobe plays in 2016-17, which team will it be for?