Bryant's acceptance of Jackson foretells renaissance

	With Shaquille O'Neal now in Miami, the Lakers' future rests on the relationship Kobe Bryant forges with Phil Jackson. Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images
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When the Lakers announced the return of coach Phil Jackson on Tuesday, Kobe Bryant made it clear that he hadn't forgiven the author of the 2003-04 diary The Last Season for betraying confidences and exposing the Lakers star to public criticism. Bryant's feelings could be heard loud and clear between the lines of the backhanded compliment he offered to owner Jerry Buss and GM Mitch Kupchak in a written statement: "In Phil Jackson, they chose a proven winner. That is something I support."

The italics are mine, but the meaning is entirely Bryant's: His appreciation is limited to Jackson's nine championship rings.

This is a promising sign for the Lakers. Instead of vetoing Jackson's appointment, Bryant is taking the high road. After being accused of breaking up the Lakers' dynasty for personal reasons, Bryant has changed gears and is now willing to put up with somebody he detests in order to win.

Some will say that Bryant is being petty by not letting go of the past. The truth is that he's behaving professionally. He's entitled to his feelings, but he's ignoring them in pursuit of a larger cause.

(Just so you know, I'm not one of Bryant's media sycophants. I've criticized him over the past two years, but let's be fair: A lot of star players in this situation would not ignore their resentment and submit to Jackson's return.)

My guess is that we're about to see a renaissance for Bryant. He's tired of people saying that he's inferior to everyone from LeBron James to Dwyane Wade to Ray Allen. Bryant also understands that he can't lead the Lakers anywhere without forming a partnership with his head coach. Bryant and Jackson need each other; and because of that, they will find a way to work together.

The Lakers' future isn't as bad as it looked last season. They should acquire a meaningful player on draft night, whether they keep their No. 10 selection or trade it for a veteran. Jackson will then find out if Lamar Odom can carve out a significant role as the team's No. 2 option; if not, then Kupchak can deal him for a more complementary star. With Jackson back in charge, the Lakers should spend next season developing a winning identity while returning to the playoffs. And in '06-07 they'll be able to trade the cap relief of Brian Grant's expiring $15.4 million salary in exchange for the third star that could put them over the top.

Michael Jordan was considered a destructive teammate for years until Jackson helped him to become more accommodating and Bulls GM Jerry Krause improved his supporting cast. Jackson and Kupchak should provide the same positive influence, now that Shaq is gone and Bryant no longer need worry about being the best player on his team.

As a result, don't be surprised if Bryant re-emerges as an MVP candidate next season. You may never like him, but a year from now you will respect him.