Feb 22, 2013 09:44 AM EST
Los Angeles Lakers News: Kobe Bryant Guarantees Playoff Spot, Confident Team Can Compete with Miami Heat

Kobe Bryant does not lack any confidence in the Los Angeles Lakers. In a season where the team has had their fair share of highs and lows, Bryant believes the team can really make something in this final stretch of the season. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Bryant guarantees a playoff spot for the Lakers and a strong run to a championship. 

The Lakers are currently sitting in ninth place in the Western Conference, three games back from Houston, so even though Bryant is guaranteeing a playoff birth, fans should hold off on purchasing their tickets. Bryant makes note that while the Lakers are certainly struggling, he has no fear about making the postseason.

"We will make the playoffs. And we will compete. And part of the reason I have that confidence is the Miami game. We had control of the game. That was no fluke. We were playing very, very, well. We were reading the defense, making the extra pass," Bryant said. 

Bryant referenced a loss to the Heat on Feb. 10 that concluded a seven-game road trip for the team. Despite the 107-97 loss, the team played well, giving Bryant confidence. The Lakers has won their last six of nine games, including a win Wednesday against rivals, the Boston Celtics. Bryant believes with games like these, there is not a team they should fear in the playoffs.

"Its not a question of if we make the playoffs. We will. And when we get there, I have no fear of anyone--Oklahoma City, San Antonio, Denver...whoever. I have zero nervousness about that," Bryant said.

Bryant has criticized the Lakers on multiple occasions this season. He has expressed displeasure in center Dwight Howard and his inability to play through an injury. He also believes the team is not taking losses seriously, referencing the team's joking demeanor after a blow out loss earlier in the season. These are the first words of positivity Bryant has spoken of the team.

Bryant is the NBA's fourth-leading scorer this season with 26.6 points per game. He believes that while certain teams like the Miami Heat have two or three great players that can control the game, the Lakers can match them.

"Ok, they have two great players who scored eight straight buckets and took control of the game. But we were right there. We can do it," Bryant said.

The Lakers are set to begin an eight-game stretch on Friday against the Portland Trail Blazers. Five of the eight opponents have losing records. At 26-29 on the season, this will be a chance for the Lakers to gain speed on the Rockets for the eight-seed in the playoffs.

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