Kobe should rest

Kobe hasn't played the past couple of games for the Lakers due to his ankle sprain. He is known as a "warrior" who fights through injuries. Missing the game stopped his 235 consecutive game streak. Surprisingly, the Lakers looked good beating Portland in Portland and the Spurs at home. They were two solid wins. The Lakers hadn't won in Portland in forever. Granted, they are injury prone but they seem to have the Lakers number there no matter what. However, solid play from everyone made for a good win. Same thing for the Spurs. The Spurs have been playing better and looking to take advantage of Kobe's absence. However, the guys stepped up again and it was great to see. Bynum was out for that game too and Gasol just had a monster game. Phil Jackson stated its nice to have Kobe (even if he's a little injured) because he provides that X factor that allows you to win. I have been watching a lot of the Laker games. Recently, as Kobe's injuries have slowed him down, he really hasn't helped the team. My analysis is that Kobe is hurting the Lakers directly and indirectly. He is hurting them directly because in some of the game he tries to be "Kobe" but he just can't do it. His shot is terrible or he can't drive like he usually does. Indirectly the guys depend on him too much and rely on Kobe to be Kobe. There were a few instances that Kobe relied on himself too much and didn't trust his teammates. That was the rep of the old Kobe, however, Kobe has been able to use his teammates more appropriately the past couple years. Don't get me wrong, there were times where Kobe definitely picked up the play for the Lakers, but there were times I was like "what are you doing!?" I understand that Kobe will play if he can walk, but I don't know if thats the best thing. He knows his body though. He is not one to wait until something becomes 100%. My assessment is you need to rest until your better enough where your not shooting/doing stuff your struggling to do. I'm sure Kobe will be back and I'll be glad to see it. However, I think I would like for him to miss this next game before the All-Star break and use the break to rest up and come back a little stronger. Kobe is still the man, but I think he can rest a little. With him missing games, its forced other Lakers to step up more. I think knowing that Kobe isn't playing puts more focus into the guys. I think this will be good for the long hall.