From Jodie Meeks’ unexpected contribution to the possibility of Pau Gasol returning next year, a lot has gone down involving the Lakers. Believe it or not, the possibility of Kobe Bryant sitting out the remainder of the season could be a good thing.
All in all, there are several big topics to cover around Los Angeles.
Kobe On Shelf for Rest of the Season?
One of the most frustrating parts of an overall disappointing 2013-14 campaign for Lakers fans has got to be the uncertainty of whether or not Bryant will return this season.
After suffering a torn Achilles tendon last year, the 16-time NBA All-Star returned to action briefly in December. Unfortunately, only six games into his return, Bryant suffered a fractured tibia in the same leg on Dec. 17.
Initially expected to miss four weeks, Bryant is closing in on 12 weeks since his last action. He’s expected to be reevaluated on March 14, per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
Count Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Derek Fisher—who played with Bryant in Los Angeles for 13 seasons—as someone who remains optimistic about the circumstances:
It’s very likely Bryant would be able to suit up before the season is over. But the real question is: Would it be worth it?
By the time March 14 comes around, the Lakers would only have 17 games remaining.
With a playoff run out of the question, it would be pointless to risk another setback for Bryant this season. Plus, at 22-42, Los Angeles is in great shape for a high pick in what should be a deep draft class.
Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak doesn’t seem keen on risking the future.
“We’re not going to push him to g...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
