Kobe Bryant’s injury woes continue with the five-time NBA champion trying to battle through the aches and pains during his 20th and final season with the Los Angeles Lakers.
On Saturday night, Bryant was able to get on the floor for the Lakers against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Although Kobe was able to play, the veteran only scored five points in 15 minutes before shutting it down for the night.
Apparently, Bryant’s sore right Achilles tendon was acting up once again during the game against the Jazz via Mike Bresnahan of the Los Angeles Times:
Kobe said his Achilles was tight and it got "jammed up" on a fadeaway. He wasn't sure about tomorrow's game vs. Houston.
— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) January 17, 2016
Ever since announcing he’ll be retiring once the 2015-16 NBA season is officially over for the Lakers, Bryant has made a point of it to be on the floor for as many games as possible. Although an admirable attempt, it is becoming tougher and tougher for 37-year-old to be able to play every night.
Bryant’s right Achilles has become a persistent problem and likely won’t be going away anytime soon without rest. Kobe has also been dealing with a sore right shoulder that hasn’t been bothering him as much as his Achilles but remains an issue.
On Sunday, the Lakers will host the Houston Rockets at the Staples Center. Bryant is currently listed as questionable and may ultimately be ruled out before tip-off. Rookie Larry Nance Jr. will not play due to a knee injury sustained against the Jazz.