Kobe Bryant is one of several notable names set to become a free agent during the summer of 2014. But the Los Angeles Lakers seem to have no interest in letting that actually happen.
Lakers executive vice president of basketball operations Jim Buss told ESPN Friday that the team has already begun talks with the star guard's representative on a potential contract extension, and he expects a deal to be completed before Bryant becomes a free agent.
MORE: Summer of 2014 overrated? | Top 15 names in NBA free agency | Lakers preview
"I want to put an end to any speculation that we would allow Kobe to become a free agent," Buss told ESPNLosAngeles.com. "That's not going to happen. Kobe is a top priority for us. He's a Laker legend and always will be. I don't think we're done winning championships with him yet.
"Mitch Kupchak and Rob Pelinka (Bryant's agent) have been talking, but with him being hurt, it has slowed the process some. I don't know when it'll get done, but I have faith in Rob and Mitch to work things out."
Recovering from surgery on his left Achilles tendon, The 35-year-old veteran is entering the final year of his current contract.
No date has been set for Bryant's return. The Lakers open the regular season Oct. 29 against the Clippers.