While making an appearance on ESPN's "The Grantland Basketball Hour," Kobe Bryant acknowledged that he requested a trade from the Lakers back in 2007, though a prospective deal never materialized.
"Chicago was my No. 1 choice," Bryant said.
According to the Los Angeles Times, the Lakers were in discussions with the Bulls but were hung up on the inclusion of forward Luol Deng, who is now a member of the Heat. Bryant also revealed that he declined a prospective deal with the Pistons that included Richard Hamilton, Tayshaun Prince and several draft picks. Detroit was not among the teams on his trade list.
"I gave you a list of teams I'm comfortable being traded to," Bryant recalled. "Not Detroit."
The Lakers would eventually won back-to-back titles with Bryan and Pau Gasol in 2009 and 2010. Bryant is seeking a "career rebirth" despite being limited to 41 games the last two seasons due to injury. He's scheduled to make $25 million next season -- his 20th season with the Lakers.
More News
-
Lakers' Kobe Bryant: Caps off brilliant career with 60-point effort
• -
Lakers' Kobe Bryant: Expects to play season-high minutes Wednesday
• -
Lakers' Kobe Bryant: Aggressive on offense versus Rockets
• -
Lakers' Kobe Bryant: Will play in both games of back-to-back
• -
Lakers' Kobe Bryant: Will take the court Friday
• -
Lakers' Kobe Bryant: Questionable for Friday's game
•