Regarding news of Bryant, Jackson wrote of his concern but also: "Kobe can be consumed with surprising anger, which he's displayed toward me and toward his teammates....He rebels against authority." Jackson and Laker management decided to loosen their reins on Bryant, who decided to play the season as normal, but with admittedly no patience for O'Neal's comments to the media.
Concerning news about Bryant, Jackson expressed his apprehension while also stating: "Kobe can be consumed by intense fury, which he has displayed toward me and my teammates....He resists obedience." The Lakers' management and leadership decided to give Bryant more freedom, allowing him to play the season as usual, but with a noticeable lack of tolerance for O'Neal's media comments.