The Masked Mamba

The Masked Mamba

By Paige Costantino

Kobe's amazing All-Star performance, passing Michael Jordan in the most points scored overall in his 14 All-Star game appearances, also suffered a broken nose. Kobe was fouled by Miami Heat's Dwyane Wade which resulted in a broken nose and a concussion. After going to an ear, nose and throat specialist he was cleared to play the next game against the Minnestoa Timberwolves, however, the Back Mamba had to wear a protective mask, making him the Masked Mamba. 

Source: Against the Timberwolves

His first game as the Masked Mamba resulted in 31 points (most points in the game), 7 rebounds and also played a majority of the game, 33 minutes out of the possible 48 minutes. Kobe was 11-23 in field goals and only missed on free throw (9-10). The Masked Mamba also contributed 8 assists, the most assists for the Lakers. The Lakers defeated the Timberwolves easily, 104-85 (NBA.com).

The Masked Mamba's second appearance was against the Sacramento Kings. This was another chance to show that Kobe can put in work and shows results, masked and all. The Mamba put up the most points in the game with 38, he was 13-28. He played 37 minutes and was 11-14 in free throws. Not only did he put up these impressive stats but he also had 15 rebounds. Once again, the Laker's prevailed defeating the Kings 115-107 (NBA.com).
The next test is the #1 team in the east, the Miami Heat. This will be a test for the Lakers going against the big 3 Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. The Masked Mamba who has averaged 34.5 points the past two games will definitely have to bring his A game when Miami arrives at Staples Center on Sunday. Will he put up another big game?