After taking a huge step forward on Tuesday according to head coach Mike D’Antoni, Kobe Bryant participated in practice once again and had another strong performance. With everyone anticipating Bryant’s return on Friday night against the Sacramento Kings, D’Antoni said that it remains a strong possibility and a decision will be made on the day of the game.
While there is uncertainty on whether Bryant will actually play on Friday, NBA TV isn’t taking any chances. The network has decided that it will televise the game in hopes that it will be the first game Bryant plays since rupturing his Achilles in April according to ESPN’s Arash Markazi:
No official word on Kobe’s return but Friday’s Lakers at Sacramento game will now be televised by NBA TV.
— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) December 4, 2013
With another strong practice tomorrow, Bryant may very well return to the court as soon as Friday. If that is the case, it couldn’t have come at a better time as the Lakers are dealing with injuries at the point guard position and were going to rely on Xavier Henry and Jodie Meeks. While it would be a short-term solution, Bryant’s ball-handling abilities will be important with Jordan Farmar out for at least four weeks and no set timetable for Steve Nash.
So far this season, the Lakers have exceeded expectations in route to a 9-9 record. With Bryant’s return near, the Lakers should be able to win close games and make their playoff push.
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Pau Gasol On Adjusting To Kobe Bryant Being Back At Practice