Will Kobe Come Back the Same?

Will Kobe be the same when he comes back?

The answer to this question will remain unknown, until number 24 steps onto the basketball court, for the first time after rupturing his Achilles’ tendon. Originally, Kobe was projected to return to the hardwood sometime around February. However, knowing Kobe Bryant and how he takes care of his body, it was thought to be more like Christmas time. After successful surgery, Kobe stated he really didn’t have any pain in the tendon. This does not mean much because that is sort of a normal result for this operation, but it does sound like something Kobe would say.

Courtesy: Washington Post

When Kobe went down with the injury, I personally was not watching.  I woke up to the news and I was deeply depressed, because all of the hard work put in to make the playoffs went down the drain. The thought of Kobe’s career ending also slipped into my mind. I asked “is this the last time Kobe will be on the court?” These thoughts were immediately halted, when I found out Kobe got up, knocked down two clutch free throws, and walked off the court. I can’t say I was completely shocked he did this but I was surprised since it was a fully ruptured Achilles.

Those free throws were not only two points, but a definite sign the Black Mamba would be back sooner rather than later.

Now we sit with the news that Kobe could possibly be back for the season opener; let me repeat that, The Season Opener! If he did this he would miss under ten games and reiterate how much of a freak of nature he is.

Now, moving on to answering the question. No player has come back the same after tearing their Achilles’ tendon. Yes, this is Kobe Bryant but it is a brutal injury. I don’t believe he will be the same as before. I would not be surprised if he lost some speed and athleticism. That does not mean he won’t be an elite basketball player anymore, it simply means he will have to adjust his game. I am 100% confident that Kobe will adjust his game when he comes back. He will most likely be a little rusty in the beginning but as the season progresses I expect his stats to be similar to those from last season.