Who would have imagined a few years ago that Nash would have more MVP awards (one) than Bryant, who, incredibly, has yet to win one after 10 years in the league.

He's the odds-on favorite this year, though a case could be made that a player wins an MVP by making his teammates better as Nash continues to do in Phoenix.

Bryant likes his chances.

"I'd vote for myself," he said.

And if he couldn't?

"I wouldn't vote at all."

The MVP trophy will be the only hardware the Lakers take home this season. Bryant may win a playoff game or two just by his own sheer will, but this is a team with too many holes and too little experience to go far.

Still, the Lakers are back in the postseason after a one-year absence. That means the beautiful people will have a chance to see and be seen for a few more games.

And in Tinseltown, that's what really matters the most.