I think he didn't expect Joe D to rat him out on his refusing to go back in when he built up such sympathy for his plight. And I'm sure Kuester saw it as a chance to run him harder. Problem is neither Kuester or Rip is an easy cut and they know it. How do they play war of wills at that original moment of issue? Hate it from Rip because he is a vet who made his career here, and for Kuester because head coaching is exactly about making dysfunctional situations work. Triangle offense be damned Phil Jackson was brought back because he's one of the few Head Coaches who can operate in spite of Kobe's tantrums. Even has Artest and Kobe on his team and doesn't break a sweat.