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

Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant had been out since Feb. 26 due to a sore shoulder. However, he is ready to return. 

Continue for updates.

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Bryant Active vs. Nuggets

Wednesday, March 2

Bryant will start on Wednesday against Denver, per Mike Trudell of Lakers.com, who added his minutes will be "decreased a bit." 

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Injury-Plagued Bryant No Longer Essential to Lakers 

Bryant is in the midst of his last NBA season and has a history of toughing his way through injuries. 

But the Lakers have little to play for other than pride, so Bryant took his time before returning to action. It's been a tough 20th season for Bryant, who is shooting a career-low 35 percent from the field this year.

The Lakers gave rookie D'Angelo Russell more minutes to gain experience amid a maiden season in which his role has been inconsistent.

Volume shooter Nick Young filled Bryant's role on the perimeter, while Lou Williams provided steady backcourt scoring alongside Jordan Clarkson.