Karl Malone is said to be so upset with the comments made by Kobe Bryant that he has ruled out rejoining the Lakers at any point this season.  

"Karl is furious," agent Dwight Manley said. "He felt very disrespected and betrayed after personally being the first to stand up for Kobe over the last year throughout his rape charge and all he went through."

Malone however has not ruled out returning to the NBA this season.  Malone says that he has recovered from knee surgery and that he is 100% healthy.  

Asked if Malone might play elsewhere, Manley replied: "This certainly opens up that possibility."

Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak made a statement and hoped that Manley's comments did not accurately reflect Malone's decision.

"If so, it is unfortunate that he would make such a decision based on the reason given," the statement added. "Kobe Bryant's interview ... merely reflected his personal opinion that Karl would probably not return to play this season. Kobe did not at any time state that Karl was not returning, nor was Kobe speaking on behalf of the Lakers management or organization.''

If the Lakers are out of the Malone sweepstakes several teams have expressed intrest in Malone's services.  Those teams include the Spurs, Heat, and Timberwolves.