Bryant said Jordan's message to him was simple.
"'Go get Karl,' " Bryant said. "The competitor never stops."
Then Bryant grew reflective.
"It was more of a thankful feeling to Michael and the players who came before because I've learned so much from them," he said. "And I don't say that lightly. I've literally just stolen (stuff) from them — like spin moves and pull-ups. It's not me passing these players. It's us.
Malone scored 36,928 points in his 19-year career, which is second all-time behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Bryant is sitting at 32,365. Let's say Bryant keeps averaging his current mark of 25.4 points per game, even though he and Lakers head coach Byron Scott have talked about reducing his minutes load lately. That would require Bryant to play 180 more regular-season games in order to catch Malone. His contract expires at the end of the 2015-2016 season, so it seems highly unlikely he'll get there.
I just don't see Kobe's body holding up for that long. Especially with the current roster surrounding him. Also Karl Malone ALWAYS lived at the free throw line and at this point Kobe isnt attacking the basket enough to warrant 8-10ft per game. I know Kobe rather win #6 but even that seems unrealistic at this point. Just enjoy the guy these last two years because I doubt he plays beyond this contract without it being a contending roster and most of this younger generation of players are to scared to play alongside of him out there.
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