Kobe Bryant (shoulder) is likely to resume his career in the Lakers' preseason opener, against the Utah Jazz in Hawaii on October 4th, Inside So Cal reports.

Bryant (shoulder) is likely to resume his career in the Lakers' preseason opener, against the Utah Jazz in Hawaii on October 4th, Inside So Cal reports.

Analysis:

While it's encouraging that Bryant will be back for the beginning of training camp, that shouldn't be seen as an endorsement to draft him early in your fantasy leagues. Even before his injury, Bryant struggled shooting, hitting only 37 percent of his field goal attempts and has now suffered a season ending injury in three straight NBA campaigns. With his 20th NBA season likely to be his last, more decline will not be unexpected and hassle of dealing with him should be left to others in the early rounds of drafts.