Bodog Beat

Kobe Bryant didn't practice on Tuesday. (AI Wire photo)

If the Lakers really want the Kobe Bryant saga to end, they have to realize the only way is to close the book on it.

On Tuesday, the petulant star was in the news again when he reportedly cleaned out his locker. Bryant denied the report, but he also did not take part in practice for the third straight day. In May, Bryant requested a trade out of L.A. A few weeks later, he rescinded the demand, apparently giving Los Angeles management time to recruit a big name. Bryant watched as Kevin Garnett landed in Boston and as Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak did little to improve the roster.

Bryant hasn't reiterated that he wants out. The signs are apparent, though, that his time in L.A. may be short. Owner Jerry Buss said last week he would listen to trade offers for Bryant, who led the NBA in scoring last season.

"I'm just getting ready. If I'm here, I'm ready to strap it up," Bryant told reporters in the parking lot Tuesday.

Lakers coach Phil Jackson said it wasn't clear if Bryant would be in the lineup when the Lakers meet Seattle in a preseason game Thursday night. The Lakers' NBA championship odds are 22/1.

If he isn't traded, Bryant can opt out of his contract in two years. He's currently under contract for another four years and $88.6 million. Where will Kobe Bryant play? That's one of the topics discussed in Bodog Nation's 2007-08 NBA preview. Find NBA betting tips and championship picks in the popular online magazine. And get your NBA odds in the Bodog Sportsbook.