This is another example of Kobe getting a pass
There were 2 significant plays that he blew because of LACK OF EFFORT
- Watch the replay of this play. After the pass is knocked away by Deng, Kobe's body slumps and he stops playing defense for a second. Deng hurries across half court and that alerts Kobe but even in that picture he's not pressuring Deng like he should be
- The other being the huge AND 1 by Deng on a missed 3, rebound, drive and layup/foul on Gasol. Kobe sold out for the block on the 3 point shot (dumb) and that left him completely out of position to box out Deng. But honestly with more effort he could have gotten back. He had one foot ready to cherry pick.