Limiting Kobe's minutes

Lakers coach Phil Jackson said he might keep Kobe Bryant from playing his customary high number of minutes when the regular season starts Tuesday. Bryant has been slow to recovery from offseason surgery on his right knee, and Jackson doesn't want him playing his usual number of minutes until he regains his strength and explosiveness. Bryant averaged almost 39 minutes last season. His shot has been off target during exhibition play this month. He is averaging 11 points on 27.3 percent shooting. It seems like a sound move considering the stakes are high this season for the Lakers, who are trying for a three-peat.