Kobe Bryant could have one arm tied behind his back and still claim to be the best player on the court. His personal standards for himself go far beyond that of the typical player. Bryant requires brilliance from himself at all times, and so far it has gotten him five NBA Championship rings. Positive predictions are expected from Bryant, but when coach Byron Scott says that Kobe will be back to his usual self, fans need to pay attention.

"Even with one leg, he can average 20-something points a game," Scott told ThePostGame when speaking of Bryant. "I think that's very realistic. I think he'll do something like that. Five rebounds and five assists a night as well. He's going to surprise a lot of people."

If the Lakers could consistently get Kobe to contribute his career numbers, then they have a decent shot at making the playoffs. Averaging 25.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.8 assists, Bryant is an all around player who can be there in the clutch.

Winning and determination are virtues that can infect an entire team. Throughout the past seasons injuries have decimated the Lakers both physically and mentally. When arguably one of the best players of all-time falls down on the court clutching his achilles, it has a psychological effect on the team. Kobe needs to start the season off strong, giving the rest of his team the confidence needed to compete at a higher level.

Coach Byron Scott went on to say, "When people start to write him off, that makes him even more driven." The Lakers will need all of Kobe's drive to rekindle some competitive fire.

As of late, the Lakers have seemed content with their current roster. Michael Beasley is the only free agent that the Lakers are allegedly courting. While Beasley doesn't bring much in the way of a positive attitude and work ethic, Carlos Boozer and Kobe Bryant could team up to help the young player get his game on track.

Attitude will be important for the Lakers. Byron Scott will do everything in his power to exude a level of 'Laker pride' that hasn't been seen in some time. As a former Laker legend himself, Scott understands the legacy that he must help rebuild.