Kobe Bryant injury more important than you realize.

Kobe Bryant has a back problem. And it was evident on Sunday during Game 4 vs. the Utah Jazz, which the Jazz won in overtime. But, this is an important injury that may impact the rest of this series.

According to J.A. Adande of ESPN.com, Kobe Bryant says he will play in Game 5, but he obviously isn't the same player with the injury. The back is an important part of the body of an NBA player. He needs it as he explodes through the lane to score at the rim, or rise up on a jump shot. That is two big factors in Kobe's game.

Why else is it an issue? Phil Jackson called out his team for "bailing out" on Kobe Bryant toward the end of the game. I wouldn't say that they bailed out on him, but they were non-existent in the overtime period. At the same time, Odom and Fisher were especially present with their outside shooting to get back in the game after being down double digits late.

Don't count out Utah now. They've gotten back into the series with wins at home. They could just as easily surprise the Lakers in L.A.

I wonder if Kobe can carry his team on his back now?

Oh, I wonder if Kobe can do this now?