Lakers and Pistons: What Makes Vintage Kobe Different

“04,” answered Kobe Bryant when asked what motivates him to be so good, particularly against the Detroit Pistons, during the postgame interview following the L.A. Lakers’ 103-90 win.

It seems like the embarrassing 4-1 loss to the Pistons in 2004 NBA Finals is still in the back of his mind. After all, this is the team that forced the breakup of what was a dynasty in the earlier half of last decade.

A year later, the Lakers missed the playoffs for the first time in 11 years. So, in essence, it’s not hard to understand Kobe’s grudge when he walks into the Palace of Auburn Hills, an arena that left a significant dent ...

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