During the win over the Boston Celtics on Friday, the news broke of Kobe Bryant set to miss at least another three weeks with the fractured knee injury.
As a result of yet another setback and re-evaluation, Kobe might ultimately miss the rest of the season.
Speaking with the media after the win, longtime teammate Pau Gasol said Kobe will remain positive even if unable to return this season according to Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
Pau: "I know its tough for him…I just hope he gets healthy…if that means he might not play this season, I’m sure he’ll stay positive."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) February 22, 2014
Gasol went on to say dealing with severe injuries is a new experience for the superstar via Winters:
Pau on Kobe’s injuries (1/2): “I think it’s something new for him. So far he’s been handling it well."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) February 22, 2014
Pau (2/2):"Just trying to keep himself in shape & work as much as he can so if he gets the opportunity to get back to be able to play again"
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) February 22, 2014
After returning from the Achilles injury earlier this season, Kobe lasted six games before going down once again with the knee injury. It didn’t appear to be a serious knee injury initially, but was ultimately diagnosed as a fracture.
Although Kobe is among the toughest players in the league, the veteran shooting guard is taking the cautious approach to returning to the floor. With Kobe not getting any younger at 35, the future Hall of Famer taking his time to get his body right is a smart move with the team clearly not competing for a playoff spot in the Western Conference this season.
Kobe has repeatedly vowed to return at some point this season, but that stance may have changed after the latest setback. Only time will tell if the current face of the storied franchise will attempt to get back on the floor late in the season or try to get back to 100 percent in preparation for next season.
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Lakers Injury Update: Kobe Bryant Evaluated In 3 Weeks, Nick Young, Xavier Henry
