Don't think it's insecurity talking. What would you expect Kobe to say? If they were dead last in the Western Conference and he was talking like this, it would be one thing. But they're basically 3 games out of the 8th seed and they have played somewhat better recently. Whether he's right or wrong can be argued. We'll have to wait and see. But I'm not at all surprised by the comment. That's who Kobe is. I don't see it as insecurity. But I do see it as unnecessary. Even if he was just answering a question posed to him, he should just shut up and play. He should let his play and his team winning games do the talking. And up to this point, they haven't. So just shut up and play.
It would be more surprising if Kobe said something to the effect that the Lakers are finished and they should concede not making the playoffs. That would be way more out of character.