Seven months after tearing his Achilles' tendon, Kobe Bryant returned to practice Saturday for the Los Angeles Lakers, and apparently he already has made a positive impact with his teammates on the court.
Jodie Meeks said Bryant’s return to practice provided an immediate boost to the team’s psyche on the floor. Very positive day in El Sugundo.
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) November 16, 2013
Pau Gasol on Kobe at practice: “He looked good, & did a few moves I didn’t expect him to do right away. I’m very happy for him & for us.”
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) November 16, 2013
Xavier Henry on Kobe's practice: "He was out there making shots, basically being himself, just at a slower pace."
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) November 16, 2013
Given the type of injury Bryant suffered, his comeback has been nothing short of astounding. Throughout the rehab process, Bryant has been confident his recovery was moving along ahead of schedule. In recent weeks, he has been doing extensive drills in preparation for rejoining his teammates.
Bryant's presence was felt on Day 1, according to Lakers guard Jordan Farmar.
“That’s a guy whose presence you can’t replace,” Farmar told the L.A. Daily News. “He got out there today and changed the tone on his first day back with us. It’s exciting to see. I’m looking forward to having him there. It’ll benefit everybody.”
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When the 35 year-old shooting guard will return to the starting lineup, however, will be dependent on how he handles full contact drills over the coming weeks.
The 4-7 Lakers have struggled without Bryant so far. If they are going to turn things around, they need their franchise player back as soon as possible.