Hey, don't shoot me, I'm just the messenger.

Proof that not EVERY Blazer fan hates Mr. #24 Mamba fellow...

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There are some things in Portland's favor:

1. A good, young team that could challenge for a ring if Kobe signs. Think about it - the biggest hurdle in the WC is the L*kers, and they've just lost the heart of their team if Kobe goes to the Blazers.

2. Phil is just about ready to hang it up. If not this year, then next. What does Kobe do after that? Will Rambis or Shaw take the L*kers to the championship? If he signs a long-term deal with the L*kers, he has no control over his future. Right now is the only control he has.

3. Kobe has a lot of respect for Nate and has praised him on multiple occasions. He might like playing for him. * * *