Stars
Fatigue the main factor behind Lakers letdown: Bryant
Updated: 2011-05-12 16:25
(Agencies)
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Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant talks during a news conference after the Lakers were knocked out of the NBA basketball playoffs in Los Angeles, California, May 11, 2011. [Photo/Agencies] |
LOS ANGELES - Fatigue had been the biggest reason for the premature exit from the playoffs by the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers, All-Star guard Kobe Bryant said on Wednesday.
In pursuit of a third consecutive championship and a record-equalling 17th title, the Lakers were swept out of the second round by the Dallas Mavericks after being routed 122-86 in Sunday's Game Four.
"It's been a long run ... a great run but a long run," Bryant told reporters before checking out of the Lakers' training base in El Segundo on Wednesday.
"The biggest thing was the fatigue factor. Guys were tired. A lot of times when you get tired, you get burdened by things that you're normally not burdened by."
Asked how the Lakers would recover for next season, Bryant replied: "Just re-focus.
"This summer, some guys will rest, some guys will train and some guys will get healthy. Just re-focus, come back next year with a good sense of purpose and be ready to go."
While the Lakers face an uncertain future over the coming months with a new head coach being sought along with possible changes in personnel, Bryant had no doubt the Lakers could get back to the top next season.
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