But the Lakers are "just" third in the Western Conference at 21-8, and don't look like the team supposedly destined to meet LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh and the Miami Heat in the 2011 NBA finals.
And much of that is due to Bryant playing much worse than expected.
He's shown signs of being on the decline ever since his 35.4 ppg season in '05-'06, but has put critics to rest year-after-year.
But, after 14-plus seasons, it's safe to say that while he still is a star, Kobe Bryant's career has already hit its peak, and is all downhill from here.
It will be a long trek down, though.
Here are 10 reasons why Kobe is on the decline for good.
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Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
