Therefore, for the Cavaliers, Game 5 is a must-win.
Of course, it's the same for the Lakers, who have no way out.
The day before Game 5, the Lakers held an open training session at Staples Center.
Kobe participated in the first half of the Lakers' training, and during the second half, when the full-court match was ongoing, he sat by the sidelines to rest.
This made the journalists alert.
It's uncertain if James is really injured, but Kobe certainly had quite a few injuries this year.
Especially since entering the playoffs, his elbow and knees have been carrying injuries.
A 38-year-old body is ultimately not the same as a 28-year-old one; the degradation in body function increases the risk of injuries.
Journalists inquired about Kobe's injury status.
"I'm very healthy, and I will play in Game 5. As I've said, unless I leave the court lying down, nothing can stop me from playing."
Setting aside character and skills, Kobe's competitive spirit is on par with Jordan's.