Pivot Points: Lakers’ Heart Can’t Conceal Absence of Kobe Bryant

The Los Angeles Lakers lost a game against the Boston Celtics on Thursday night that they very well could have won. During the continued absence of Kobe Bryant, this defeat should serve as lesson No. 1 for those who claim the team is better without him.

Yes, it's true the Lakers have performed above expectations since Bryant has been sidelined, blitzing opponents in each of the previous four games, but this game against a quality opponent clearly illustrates how valuable Bryant is to the defending champs.

Please disregard L.A. point guard Derek Fisher'...

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