Dec 18, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Former Lakers player Kobe Bryant speaks to the media prior to the Lakers' game against the Golden State Warriors at Staples Center. Bryant's numbers 8 and 24 were to be retired during a halftime ceremony. Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images

14-Year NBA Veteran Slams Disrespect Toward Lakers Legend Kobe Bryant

Originally posted on New Orleans Pelicans on SI
By Matt Guzman | Last updated Jul 23, 2025 4:29 AM ET

Kendrick Perkins hit it on the nose.

On his most recent ESPN appearance, the former New Orleans Pelicans center spoke on the recent discourse surrounding Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. He didn't mince words.

"The disrespect need to f***ing stop man," he said. "Every time I look up, it's something different. 'Kobe wasn't this. Kobe wasn't a primary defender.'"

Kendrick Perkins on the Kobe Disrespect

"The Disrespect need to F*cken stop man,everytime i look up its something different, Kobe wasnt this, Kobe wasnt a primary defender. Man stfu Kobe was like that on both ends of the floor, Kob was Lockin tf up especially when it… pic.twitter.com/yb09YhfZvM
— TheTruth (@Thetruth8240) July 22, 2025

More often than not, comparisons and criticisms come from fanbases looking to pick fights. Even perhaps the most debated comparison — LeBron James and Michael Jordan — has been debunked by both players.

The same goes for NBA players who played alongside Bryant.

Kobe was playing defense like this while averaging 36 points per game. Kobe Bryant was INSANE !!! pic.twitter.com/oZoKM4oQF0
— 8/24- (@8_24Mamba4Ever) July 23, 2025

"Kobe was like that on both ends of the floor," Perkins continued. "Kob was locking ... up, especially when it mattered most. Especially in the postseason. Kob wanted smoke. Top three most skilled player to ever play the game of basketball ... he's Jordan offensively."

Perkins isn't exactly known for his sound basketball opinions, but when it comes to Bryant, he had it right. And he was willing to stand by it.

Harrison Hill / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

"When it comes to Kobe and where he ranks on the all-time great list," he said. "I got him top ten. I'm actually tired of debating ... about where guys rank and things of that nature. He's top-ten in my eyes."