After a successful three-game road trip, the Los Angeles Lakers returned home early this morning. With head coach Mike D’Antoni saying that the Lakers would not practice until December 3 and it would be difficult to see Kobe Bryant returning during this time, the team actually had practice on Saturday morning.
With Bryant needing more time to measure his game, D’Antoni revealed after practice that the five-time champion will not play against the Portland Trail Blazers tomorrow according to Lakers reporter Mike Trudell:
Mike D’Antoni said @kobebryant went through the whole practice, but they didn’t do much. Mostly 5-on-0 drills. He will not play tomorrow.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) November 30, 2013
While he only participated in 5-0 drills, a return is near and Bryant may possibly play this Friday against the Sacramento Kings:
D’Antoni said Kobe is getting closer to playing. Friday at SAC is a possibility, but doesn’t want to look past the next practice (Tuesday).
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) November 30, 2013
With four days off between the Portland and Sacramento games, it will give Bryant the practice time he needs to measure what he’ll be able to do and adapt to his limitations after the Achilles rupture. While Bryant once saw himself playing by the end of November, the Lakers’ play has likely given him more time.
While most thought the Lakers would be out of the playoffs, they have played well together and were able to get above the .500 mark with the victory against the Detroit Pistons last night. With Bryant’s return near, the Lakers should be able to win more games with their best closer ready to lead them to the playoffs and beyond.
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VIDEO: Kobe Back At Practice