After much speculation over Kobe Bryant’s return to the floor, the Los Angeles Lakers will not have their superstar shooting guard in the lineup against the division rival Sacramento Kings on Friday according to Rachel Nichols of Turner Sports via Twitter:
Kobe tells me he’s getting closer to returning but that he’s not planning on playing Friday (Lakers’ next game)
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) December 5, 2013
All signs seemed to be pointing to Bryant’s return against the Kings with the five-time NBA champion having four days of practice to prepare to go on the road for Sacramento.
Although Bryant will sit out against the Kings, there’s still a chance his return could be against the Toronto Raptors on Sunday at the Staples Center. A return against the Raptors would be fitting considering Bryant’s history against Toronto and the fact he scored 81 points against the Raptors in 2006.
Regardless of the actual return date, the Lakers will be without their star for a little while longer. Following the game against the Raptors on Sunday, the Lakers will face the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday and will go on the road to face the Oklahoma City Thunder next Friday.
________________________________________________________________________
Pau Gasol On Adjusting To Kobe Bryant Being Back At Practice
