We know Kobe Bryant will not play Friday against Sacramento — he said as much and he’s not even traveling with the team to beautiful central California.
So what about Sunday in Staples Center against the Raptors? Maybe.
That’s as good as it’s going to get right now. Kobe spoke with reporters after his third consecutive day of practice and had these things to say about his return, via Dave McMenamin of ESPN and Mike Trudell of Lakers.com.
Kobe was specifically asked about playing Sunday against TOR: "I'm trying." Still needs to see how his body feels in the next 3 days
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) December 5, 2013
Kobe: "I feel pretty good. Another good day. A little stiff right now after three hard days of work."
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) December 5, 2013
Bryant: "My range of motion is a lot better (than last week). I don't feel like I have any limitations, really."
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) December 5, 2013
Bryant said he's not "jumping through the gym" right now, adding he doesn't need to do that to be a good player when he comes back.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) December 5, 2013
Kobe has no reason to be specific. He knows his body.
He’s also not patient — I’d bet you will see him in the two home games the Lakers have coming up.