Kobe Bryant already lamenting possible loss of World Peace

The Lakers haven’t officially waived Metta World Peace but Kobe Bryant is already bracing for it to happen.

“This is a tough day for Laker nation,� Bryant said Monday on Twitter, reminding his 3 million followers that World Peace was a key part in the Lakers’ Game 7 victory over Boston in the 2010 NBA Finals.

The Lakers couldn’t actually waive World Peace until a one-week period set to begin Wednesday, and they would still have to pay his $7.7-million salary next season, but they could save at least $15 million in luxury taxes if they made the move.

“Personally I’d keep Metta and make a run with the unit we have and just add a few pieces,� Bryant later added on Twitter, along with the hashtags “Keep the peace� and “Lakers still deciding.�

World Peace, 33, actually prospered for a while in Coach Mike D’Antoni’s offense but then dipped past the midpoint of the season and didn’t look strong after returning from a procedure to have knee cartilage removed.

He averaged only six points on 25% shooting in three playoff games for the Lakers. He was unable to play in Game 4 because of his knee.

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