Kobe had 81 points, and he's pretty much alone out there. Wade has shaq. It's easier to win when you have someone else on the team to help you out. Ask lebron, he's been home for a while now because nobody else wanted to play...
Kobe could have had Shaq around if didn't demand such a high contract that forced the Lakers to choose between Shaq and Kobe. They made the right choice in sticking with Kobe, Shaq won't be around as long as him, so at least they have a way to put butts in the seats and sell Jerseys for a while. But the fact remains that Kobe and his agent knew they could get the Lakers to take him over Shaq in a big contract battle. That's what Kobe wants. He wants to be the only reason people go the the Staples Center. And congratulations to him! His wish came true! So I do not feel sorry for him one bit when he feels "saddened" when he does not make it past the second round of the playoffs.