Feb 16, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant speaks during a press conference before the 2014 NBA All-Star Game at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
The Lakers took another big hit Friday night when it was announced superstar guard Kobe Bryant would not be back for at least three more weeks at the minimum. Bryant is still experiencing pain, swelling, and soreness in the knee and won’t be re-evaluated for three more weeks.
Kobe Bryant is still experiencing pain, swelling and soreness in his knee, and will be re-examined in 3 weeks.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 22, 2014
Kobe Bryant has played just 6 games this year. His return from his torn Achilles was cut short when he fractured his leg against the Memphis Grizzlies in mid-December. What was originally thought to be a 4-6 week injury, Bryant’s return has been slow and delayed. Now, with another three weeks before re-evaluation, Bryant is likely 4-6 weeks, at best, before a return.
However, the longer Bryant’s return is delayed, the more the murmurs of the Lakers holding him out grow. Mitch Kupchak recently stated that the team would not rush Bryant back. This only added fuel to the fire. Despite his mentality, Bryant has sat on the sideline quietly. His injury certainly is holding him back now, but once he’s all cleared, it could be a different story.