<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post"> Bryant had said he thought Malone would not play this season, though he added that belief was based on intuition only. The Lakers responded to Manley with a statement from general manager Mitch Kupchak. "We are aware of the comments made today by Dwight Manley," Kupchak said, "and hope that they do not accurately reflect Karl Malone's feelings about returning to the Lakers. "If so, it is unfortunate that he would make such a decision based on the reason given. Kobe Bryant's interview yesterday on Mychal Thompson's radio show merely reflected his personal opinion that Karl would probably not return to play this season. Kobe did not at any time state that Karl was not returning, nor was Kobe speaking on behalf of the Lakers management or organization." The bottom line, though, on a Tuesday that felt like old times had Malone's name added to the list that now includes Phil Jackson, Shaquille O'Neal and Ray Allen of players and coaches who have clashed with Bryant since the start of training camp alone.</div> Source : http://www.dailynews.com/Stories/0,1413,20...2582842,00.html
