When Kobe Bryant was introduced to the Lakers' faithful in the player introductions on opening night Tuesday, the usual cheers were largely drowned out by boos cascading from the seats.

The response had apparently been triggered by the ugly situation Bryant and his team find themselves in, the Lakers' superstar publicly expressing his displeasure with the team and his desire to be traded -- a wish he later withdrew -- owner Jerry Buss publicly admitting he is entertaining trade offers and Coach Phil Jackson recently saying Bryant "hasn't thrown his heart and soul into performing on the floor."

Asked after Tuesday's game if it was the first time he had been booed at Staples Center, Bryant, rather than taking offense, cracked a smile.

"No, it wasn't," he said. "I've had a couple of 10-for-40s [shooting nights]. I understand where they are coming from. Nobody knows the entire situation because I just keep my mouth shut, as I should. But it was good to see them come back to normal later in the game."