Kobe Bryant had not yet finished surgery on his right rotator cuff by the time the Los Angeles Lakers ended practice on Wednesday. Lakers head coach Byron Scott said he spoke to Bryant Tuesday night and definitely expects Bryant to be back next season and even said the ideal scenario for him next year would be to have his minutes in the “mid to low twenties range.” Scott also said the more the media doubts him, the greater likelihood for a strong return.
I think the biggest thing with Kobe is as long as you guys are going to say that he’s done, he’s going to come back.”
Nick Young (ankle sprain) did not practice on Wednesday and the Lakers are listing him as questionable for tomorrow’s game against the Chicago Bulls.
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Jordan Clarkson had a career-high 18 points and just one turnover in his 36:46 minutes in the Lakers loss to the Washington Wizards on Tuesday night. The rookie is also averaging 12 points per game in his three games as a starter.
Scott said he loves the way Clarkson is progressing but also expects to see a different player after several more starts under his belt.
I think after 10 or 13 starts, we’re gong to see a different Jordan Clarkson. He’ll be much better, more defined where he is on the floor. He still has a way to go but I love the way the kid is progressing.”
Pau Gasol returns to Staples Center to face his former team, for the first time since his departure in free agency.
[divide]Kobe Bryant Officially Ruled Out For The Season, Expected Return Date?
