Kobe Bryant Injury: Updates on Lakers Star's Shoulder and Return

Kobe Bryant's farewell season has hit another speed bump, as the Los Angeles Lakers star is battling a shoulder issue and has been out of action since Dec. 30. However, he is ready to return.

Continue for updates.

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Bryant to Return vs. Kings

Thursday, Jan. 7

Mike Bresnahan of the Los Angeles Times reported Bryant will start versus Sacramento.

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Latest on Bryant's Practice Status

Monday, Jan. 4

Bryant did not practice but did receive treatment on Monday, according to Mark Medina of the Los Angeles Daily News.

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Age, Injuries Have Slowed Bryant in Final Season 

The Lakers have been cautious with Bryant this season after he's played a total of 41 games in the previous two years due to injuries. He had back issues earlier this year that caused him to miss time, and problems with his surgically repaired shoulder forced him to sit before a Dec. 19 showdown against Oklahoma City.

Bryant, who turned 37 in August, is having a difficult season even without the injuries. According to ESPN.com, he ranks 25th out of 64 qualified players in player efficiency rating among small forwards and is shooting a career-low 34.1 percent from the floor.

In addition to Bryant's struggles, the Lakers have had a dismal season, sitting in a distant last place in the Western Conference.