With the Lakers taking on the Dallas Mavericks tonight in their season opener at Staples Center, there are three things you should know about this morning’s pre-game shoot around.
1. Kobe is expected to play tonight, barring any setbacks.
Kobe practiced in a full shoot around this morning. After practice today, Kobe said that there is an “85 percent” chance he’ll play tonight. His likelihood of playing all depends on how he feels from now until game time.
“It’s just a matter of how sore it gets from now until I get to Staples.”
If Kobe does play, he will also be wearing a “thicker sole” to protect his ankle.
2. Jordan Hill also expected to play tonight.
“He practiced he just didn’t have contact. He should be fine.” – Mike Brown
3. Kobe made use of his time off to help the team, but really just wanted to get back to practice.
“He was a little chippy at first because he didn’t like sitting out, but once he got used to it a little bit, he started taking on other roles in such that he found ways to still help the team. He was out here getting his rehab watching practice. He was great but you could tell that he was bothered by the fact that he wasn’t practicing. That’s all he was just a little frustrated.”
Let’s hope Kobe takes out that frustration on the court tonight against the Dallas Mavericks. After an 0-8 finish to the preseason, the Lakers will be looking to accomplish their first win with a star-studded front line-up.
Game is set to tip-off at 7:30 pm at Staples Center.
Check out what Mike Brown had to say about Kobe being “chippy” in practice today.
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