Los Angeles, CA, United States (AHN) – Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant eyes a much-awaited return against the Memphis Grizzlies Tuesday, after missing five regular-season games due to various injuries.
Bryant reportedly attended the team’s practice Saturday for the first time since February 15. Bryant, the 2008 NBA regular-season MVP, remains as the Lakers all-around court leader, averaging 28 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game.
Without Bryant, the Lakers still went 4-1 with forwards Pau Gasol, Lamar Odom, and Ron Artest leading the way.
The Lakers also received quality minutes from reserve guard Shannon Brown, who averaged 15.3 points in the last three games.
Bryant said he felt good at practice and only needs days to get back at full strength.
Meanwhile, Lakers coach Phil Jackson said he’ll evaluate Bryant’s condition to see if the injuries don’t affect his superstar guard.
Bryant will try to reach another milestone in Memphis, as he plays his 1,000th career game.
Last month, Bryant surpassed NBA legend Jerry West to become the Lakers’ all-time leading scorer before the Grizzlies home crowd.
Bryant will undergo a series of physical test Sunday to reevaluate his injuries, but still expects a Tuesday return.
“The ankle should be ready to play Tuesday… If it’s not, I’m firing everybody,” Bryant joked to ESPN. “It’s been long enough.”
source: gantdaily.com
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