Kobe Bryant participated in the team's preliminary drills, but sat out the full-court five-on-five scrimmage ahead of Monday's preseason opener against Denver in San Diego, InsideSoCal.com reports.

Bryant participated in the team's preliminary drills, but sat out the full-court five-on-five scrimmage ahead of Monday's preseason opener against Denver in San Diego, InsideSoCal.com reports.

Analysis:

Although he didn't manage to participate in all facets of Sunday's practice, Bryant will start against the Nuggets on Monday. Coach Byron Scott would not say to what degree Bryant would play Monday, but did say he will see more time than anticipated at small forward due to Nick Young's thumb injury. Overall, Scott has been pleased with how Bryant has looked in camp, saying "Both guys (Bryant and Steve Nash) are a ways away obviously. But right now for them to be where they are at this time, I'm extremely happy." Bryant will solidify as a top 50 fantasy player in drafts as the preseason progresses, barring any setbacks.