One Free Agent is off the books as Kobe Bryant ends any speculation (there wasn't much) about his destination. He will be a Laker for life.

Kobe has signed a two-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. The contract terms were not divulged but ESPN LA has reported that it's worth a hefty $48.5 million. Under the terms, Bryant will receive $23.5 million in the first year and $25 million on the second. It will be his 20^th season, all with the Lakers (1996-2016). No player has played for one team in 20 years in NBA history.

The amount guarantees that Kobe Bryant will still be the highest paid player in the NBA. While that constitutes a pay cut (the maximum salary Kobe can get under NBA collective bargaining agreement is $ 32 million), the Lakers believe that Kobe should still own the distinction of the highest paycheck in the league.

It's a great compromise for both sides. Kobe takes the pay cut so they can still get a good free agent from the batch of 2014. That could be anyone from Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh or Rudy Gay.

General manager Mitch Kupchak said in the statement released (from ESPN LA): "This is a very happy day for Lakers fans and for the Lakers organization. We've said all along that our priority and hope was to have Kobe finish his career as a Laker, and this should ensure that that happens."

"To play 20 years in the NBA, and to do so with the same team, is unprecedented, and quite an accomplishment. Most importantly, however, it assures us that one of the best players in the world will remain a Laker, bringing us excellent play and excitement for years to come."

The Lakers have reached the .500 mark after winning their last three games, something very few have anticipated. With Kobe signed, Los Angeles ensures their security for the summer. They become a destination worth considering.