Kobe Bryant has had his fair share of game winning baskets and last minute rallies. He is a player that you want on the floor in those tight situations. But in a game against the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday, he was neither. Bryant visibly frustrated by his teams play late in the game was benched by head coach Mike Brown. Kobe insisted after the game that he was angry with the decision but refused to elaborate on the decision. Below are my three reason Kobe may have been benched:

1.) keeping your head level: Kobe was pissed when his team stated the quarter down by a deficit. He slammed his elbow against the sideline chairs in frustration. As a coach seeing this action you are alarmed, especially from someone who is usually the one to keep your team calm. In hopes to cool down Bryant and keep him from making a rash decision in game Brown decided to sit his star player.

2.) Keeping him fresh: Brown even admitted to not wanting to run up Kobe’s minutes in the game. considering they play again the following night in a game against the Warriors. The bench for the Lakers is deep, so the ability to make this move is warranted. Its a safe move. Brown would sub in Metta World Peace for Bryant.

3.) Getting peace in a war zone: The Grizz were hot, and they were starting to pick up momentum. Metta World Peace was not playing well, and the game of basketball is all about momentum. Brown may have figured that by putting him in the game, he might be able to get a vital peace of the Lakers team going. While in the mean time keeping his star fresh and countering with his prowess late in the game.

While this benching has become the talk of the NBA as of late. Its not something I believe that was done for any other reason, but for a pure basketball decision. Was it the best choice? We will never know, but as stated before Kobe late in the game absolutely will make your team just that much better.