Jordan: Kobe Is Evolving

Kobe Bryant walked away from MCI Center with his father, Joe, on Tuesday night.

Bryant did not stop to talk to reporters after a 113-93 victory over the Washington Wizards, but at least one observer clearly believed Bryant’s game is evolving.

Occasionally accused of patterning his game after Michael Jordan’s, Bryant used to telephone Jordan in order to seek NBA truths. Apparently, that has changed.

“He doesn’t have to pick my brain,” Jordan said. “He’s already learned a lot. I don’t want to give up any of my secrets either. But, the kid is growing. I’ve given him some information. He’s with a good coach, who’s going to help him learn and keep him focused. But when we talk, we basically talk as friends.”

*

New Jersey Net forward Kenyon Martin was ineligible to play against the Lakers a month ago because of a league suspension for a flagrant foul.

On the day of the rematch between the Nets and Lakers, here’s what you need to know about Martin’s rehabilitative potential: He not only returned from that suspension, but two others since. He has missed eight games because of five suspensions, all due to flagrant fouls.

“I think he’s being excessive,” Samaki Walker said. “I think he’s trying to make a name for himself. It’s a matter of time before someone lets him know he’s gone too far.”

Martin said Tuesday that he would not hesitate to deliver his signature hard fouls--dirty, perhaps--on Shaquille O’Neal or any of the Lakers.

“I’m going to play,” he said.

O’Neal smiled.

“He’d better be careful,” he said.

*

Laker consultant Jerry West, on his way to Virginia for the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament, attended the game after lunching with Perry Rogers, O’Neal’s agent.

TONIGHT

at New Jersey, 5 PST

Channel 9, TNT

Site--Continental Airlines Arena, East Rutherford, N.J.

Radio--KLAC (570).

Records--Lakers 53-21, Nets 47-27.

Record vs. Nets--1-0.

Update--The Nets were 9-9 in March and are in danger of being overtaken by the Detroit Pistons for the conference’s top spot.