HoopWatch

Reports, rumors and buzzes around the league have it the Kobe Bryant may leave the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers superstar guard had requested for a trade four-and-a-half months ago. And just a few weeks ago, Lakers owner Jerry Buss has expressed that he is now willing to ship Kobe. But where should Kobe really go?

If I were to choose a destination for Bryant, I’d say it’s gonna be the Phoenix Suns, in a trade that should include Shawn Marion, Marcus Banks and future draft picks. Marion has been asking to be shipped out for some time now, and Banks is of no use to the Suns. Their salary-cap may bloat a bit, but it would be best for the Suns to have Kobe in their line-up.

Bryant has shown that he can concentrate on defense and not hog the ball only if he has able teammates at his side. It was evident in his stint with the US Team in the recent FIBA Americas. In Phoenix, he will have a lot of scoring help from Amare Stoudemire, Boris Diaw, Leandro Barbosa and even from Steve Nash. Plus Nash knows where to give him the ball. It will be a renewed spirit for Kobe if he goes to Phoenix.