In the fourth quarter of tonight’s game against the Phoenix Suns, there was some question about the possibility of Kobe Bryant sitting out the rest of the game as he had what looked to be an icepack on his ankle.
This was later said to be a heat pack and Bryant re-entered the game in an attempt to lift the Lakers to victory. Though he was unable to get the Lakers the win, Bryant did score 20 points and looked far more comfortable, but questions continue to remain about the status of his repaired Achilles.
After the game Bryant spoke with the media and revealed that it wasn’t his Achilles, but rather his ankle that has been giving him issues, which is why he had the heat pack on it during the game. According to Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
Kobe confirmed that he was using a heating pad during the game tonight.
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) December 11, 2013
Kobe on ankle: "still locks up.. gets tight. In practice it’s nonstop so its always warm. In the game, you sit out so it gets tight on you"
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) December 11, 2013
This is normal for a foot injury. Bryant has not been active on the foot for a long time and that affects other parts of the body, not just his Achilles. As Bryant gets more comfortable and gets in better shape, this will undoubtedly get better for Bryant and the heat will no longer be needed.
Bryant is being very cautious, as he should be, but it is good to know that this is just a case of Kobe getting back in rhythm.
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