So much for the Lakers making a statement against the top seeded San Antonio Spurs tomorrow night. The Lake Show will be without its leading man for a third straight game according to Times beat writer Mike Bresnahan. Kobe Bryant’s shin is still problematic so the Lakers seem content to shut him down until the problem resolves itself.
Not all hope is lost for the Lakers thought. I mean just because they were crushed by Phoenix and had to sneak out of New Orleans with a victory in Bryant’s absence by no means indicates that they’re doomed in San Antonio (gulp!).
Perhaps eyeing the importance of a healthy Bryant come playoff time the Lakers are taking a measured approach with his sore shin. Then again, this is more than likely Kobe’s call to make in the first place.
Usually you’d expect Mamba to tough it out for a game of this importance. Despite his ability to seemingly roll back the hands of time this season, Bryant is still a 33-year-old baller with 16 years of NBA service on his legs. No matter his determination some things are just inescapable.