There are only a few Kobe Bryant news circulating all over the Internet lately, and that is related to his capacity to bring the Lakers back to the Playoffs after missing it for the first time in over two decades. 

Coming back from a torn Achilles tendon is already a feat for Bryant who will turn 36 before the start of the season. However, playing at a high level will be a question that is waiting to be answered. 

The interesting thing to point out here is given that the 'Black Mamba' regains his old vintage self and play at an elite level, is the new Los Angeles Lakers squad enough to bring him another and probably his last NBA title. 

Let's first note that a lot of players whom Bryant has played in the past are not in the roster anymore, the most notable of which is Pau Gasol, who decided to suit for the Bulls and contend for a title before retirement. That certainly sounds similar as far as Bryant's hopes are concerned. 

Signing on a massive contract with Los Angeles means he is confident in his skills, and so is the management. But actually, several reports from Bleacher Report and ESPN say that the contract may in fact be the leash for the Lakers to get more talent, especially in the recent free agency period. 

Los Angeles offered then free agent and superstar Carmelo Anthony more than $90 million in a span of four years, but Melo chose New York's offer which stood at $120 million for five years. 

Bryant's contract has put a heavy burden upon his shoulders to carry this team alone without long-time partner Gasol, and with an aging Steve Nash in the backcourt.