Averaging 35.4 minutes through 27 games, Kobe Bryant was forced to rest after experiencing general soreness. With the five-time champion missing three games including Christmas Day against the Chicago Bulls, Kobe will play against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday according to the official Lakers Twitter account:
Byron Scott confirms that @kobebryant will play tonight against Phoenix. Tip at 6:30pm PT on @TWCSportsNet
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) December 28, 2014
With the return of Kobe, head coach Byron Scott will limit his minutes around 30 minutes via the official Lakers Twitter account:
Kobe got shots up yesterday & this morning. Feeling pretty good. Byron is looking for him not to over exert himself tonight. Around 30 mins.
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) December 28, 2014
After two consecutive season-ending injuries and in his 19th season, Kobe has had difficulties recovering following games. As a result of the minutes at this stage of his career and admitting to heavy legs numerous times this season, Kobe is on pace for his worst shooting percentage (37.2 percent) of his career.
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While the Lakers went 1-2 without Kobe, the team played with much more ball movement which resulted in solid energy on the defensive end. With Kobe looking to reduce his workload after some much-needed rest, it will be interesting to see if the Lakers are able to play team basketball instead of relying on him.
[divide]Lakers Vs. Warriors: Byron Scott Talks Team Play Without Kobe Bryant
