The Los Angeles Lakers didn't play the most aesthetically pleasing game of basketball on Sunday when they hosted the Dallas Mavericks. Their bench was a bit easier on the eyes.
Kobe Bryant joined the team on the sidelines for the first time since undergoing season-ending rotator cuff surgery on Jan. 28, something that's expected to continue for the remainder of the season.
Bryant, who has remained in L.A. to rehabilitate and do promotional work for his documentary, "Kobe Bryant's Muse," will now join the team for all home games. When the Lakers hit the road, Bryant will hang back in Hollywood to continue his rehabilitation, one that's been much easier than previous injuries he's suffered.
"The Achilles one was horrible," Bryant said Sunday. "This one's much, much better. I can move around a lot more and it feels more strong."
In discussing his timeline for a return, Bryant pointed to a major advantage he has this time around compared to the injuries that have ended his last two seasons - his legs. Unlike the last two offseasons, Bryant will be able to keep his legs strong while rehabbing, potentially allowing him to hit the ground running instead of beginning the season in rust-shaking mode.
"I'll train just like I normally do and do everything possible to be ready and come back with a vengeance," Bryant said.
Next season will be Bryant's 20th in the league and will see him become the first player in NBA history to play 20 seasons with the same franchise. While it's cause for celebration, Bryant has declined to officially declare 2015-16 his last year, something his current recovery could go a long way toward deciding.
Rookie Julius Randle, who broke his leg in the first game of the season, will begin traveling with the team soon to do more work with the team's physical therapy staff. Randle is expected to be ready in time to participate in Summer League this July.