The Los Angeles Lakers began their preseason with a 98-95 win over the Denver Nuggets Monday night. The game marked the first time Kobe Bryant stepped on the court since fracturing his left knee facing the Memphis Grizzlies December 17.
Bryant felt no effects of any wear and tear Monday and had no problems finding his spots on the court according to the OC Register’s Bill Oram:
Kobe Bryant after preseason debut: "Felt like I could do anything I wanted."
— Bill Oram (@bill_oram) October 7, 2014
Bryant added he was in good shape and comes into the season feeling the best has has in recent years via the Lakers Official Twitter:
Kobe: "It felt good, felt fine… This is the healthiest I've been in a couple years now." pic.twitter.com/kLbcbJE9hO
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) October 7, 2014
His first basket came on stepback jumper over Arron Afflalo and ended the night with 13 points while shooting 42 percent from the field. In all, he played 21 minutes in his first game back and added five assists and two rebounds.
— Have You Seen These LIMITED EDITION “Mamba Strikes Back” T-Shirts? —
Head coach Byron Scott will continue to monitor Bryant’s minutes during the preseason and the regular season. During his 18 year career, Bryant has averaged 36.6 minutes a game and will likely be seeing less this season. He also figures to play some time at the small forward position while Nick Young remains sidelined with a torn ligament on his right thumb.
The Lakers’ next game is Thursday when they take on the Golden State Warriors in Staples Center.
[divide]More Kobe After The Game – Talks Rookies Julius Randle, Jordan Clarkson