Kobe Bryant to play in Lakers’ season opener

The entire Lakers fanbase can exhale.

Kobe Bryant will suit up in the Lakers’ season opener tonight against the Dallas Mavericks despite nursing a strained and bruised right foot.

“Feeling good enough to play tonight!” Bryant posted on Facebook. “I’ll use my strong midsoles for added cushion on the foot for more protection. Looking forward to this journey as I’m sure you are.”

After the Lakers’ morning shootaround, Bryant penned his chances to play tonight at 85%. Even though he ran for 45 minutes without any pain and noticed his foot getting stronger, Bryant still wanted to see how it would respond for the rest of the day.

Bryant’s had a well-documented history in playing through injuries. But he sounded cognizant in not wanting to play if added pressure on the foot would worsen his condition.

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