MKRob Sports

Kobe Bryant said he is planning to remain with the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers even he if opts out of his contract this summer. Phil Jackson said his health will dictate whether he returns as coach.

Bryant met with Jackson and General Manager Mitch Kupchak for an individual exit interview yesterday. The Finals MVP can terminate the last two years of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

He’s spent his entire 13-year career with the Lakers, winning four NBA championships. He could get a new, longer deal if he opted out, but he wouldn’t necessarily make more money. Asked by reporters if he would opt out, Bryant said, “I’ve been deflecting that all year and I ain’t going to stop now.” Pressed to explain, he responded, “I’m not going anywhere. I know I ain’t going nowhere, so it’s just a waste of our breaths just talking about it.”

 Jackson, who turns 64 in September, said he’ll decide about next season after he gets some health issues checked out. This season, he missed two West Coast road games because of pain and swelling in his lower legs caused by plantar fasciitis, an issue “that concerned me a little bit,” he said. He blamed late-night flights that aggravated the condition. He has undergone two hip replacement operations since October 2006 – using a cane at various times – and walks with a noticeable hitch in his step.