Los Angeles Lakers star guard Kobe Bryant was recently spotted having breakfast with Boston Celtics free-agent-to-be Rajon Rondo, sparking speculation the two might be considering teaming up at some point.
The two star players were seen breaking bread together early Thursday, just hours before the Lakers are scheduled to face the Celtics in a Friday night battle at the TD Garden. The 28-year-old Rondo officially becomes a free-agent at the end of the season.
According to ESPN, while the two teams are not currently engaged in any talks sources indicate they did talk potential deals several months ago. It remains a mystery which of those teams initiated the discussions.
Over the years, the Lakers have made little secret of their interest in the veteran Rondo, who led the league in assists in back-to-back seasons commencing in 2011. Rondo currently leads the league in assists at 10.9 and ranks 13th in steals at nearly two a game.
To even seriously consider dealing Rondo to their longtime arch-rivals, the Celtics are expected to at least demand a first-round pick. The Lakers already owe this year’s selection to the Phoenix Suns.
While Bryant has often voiced his fondness for Rondo’s style, the Lakers are said to have some concerns given his recent injury history. He played in just 30 games during the 2013-14 season after suffering a torn ACL.
“You don’t want Rondo? Send him my way, Bryant recently told reporters. “I love everything about him. Everything. I love his attitude, I love his chippiness, his edge, his intellect, his know-it-allness. All of it. That’s what makes championship players. What guard have you seen at his size that will get you 18 assists, 17 boards and 20 points all in one game? He’s one of my favorites.”
Of his eight NBA seasons, Rondo’s best came in 2012-13 when he averaged 13.7 points and 11.1 rebounds.
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