Kobe will 'definitely' play in Lakers' exhibition opener Sunday

Kobe Bryant was last healthy enough to come into an NBA game Jan. 21 on the road against the New Orleans Pelicans. That was the night "The Black Mamba" suffered a torn rotator cuff in his right shoulder, costing him the remainder of the 2014-15 season.

After a long and strenuous rehab process following surgery, the Los Angeles Lakers star is ready for some real on-court action.

Following Saturday's practice, the 17-time All-Star said he's "definitely" going to play in the team's exhibition opener against the Utah Jazz on Sunday, according to Bleacher Report's Kevin Ding.

The game will go down at the Stan Sheriff Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, where the Lakers are currently holding training camp.

Head coach Byron Scott said he hasn't finalized a starting lineup for the game, although it's safe to assume Bryant will be slotted in as small forward next to the young backcourt of D'Angelo Russell and Jordan Clarkson.

The Lakers will open the regular season Oct. 28 against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Staples Center.