Los Angeles, CA — Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant is not expected to return this season due to his fractured left knee. Kobe originally injured his Achilles tendon last April, but returned to the game last December. Then, just six games later, he fractured his knee and has since been in rehabilitation. And now, it’s been revealed that he likely won’t be returning until next season.
Sadly, the Lakers really need him. They are tied with the Sacramento Kings for the worst record in the Western Conference at 22-42. Bryant told reporters, “I just try to get better and then go from there. I just try to focus, keep my blinders on and just do what I have to do and not worry too much about what’s going on around you, but just stay focused on what my responsibilities are.”
Despite the team’s lackluster record, Bryant is still hopeful and believes the Lakers can make the playoffs. He comments, “This offseason, with all the cap space, seems to be right in the Lakers’ wheelhouse, in terms of turning things around pretty quickly. We’ve never really faltered. We’ve normally made excellent decisions that put us back in contention.”
Bryant, who is now 35-years-old, has won five NBA championships and has appeared in 16 All-Star games. He recently signed a two-year $48.5 million contract extension last November. So his career is not yet over, although some sports experts says it’s nearing it’s end.