Kobe Bryant participates in his first practice on Saturday

In what marked his first practice since shattering his left Achilles tendon seven months ago, Kobe Bryant joined the Lakers Saturday for a series of five-on-zero drills.

Bryant also participated fully in strategy work and shooting drills, though the practices were understood not to involve any contact.

“That’s a guy whose presence you can’t replace,” Lakers guard Jordan Farmar said. “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.”

The Lakers haven’t offered a timetable on his return. But Lakers coach Mike D’Antoni expressed doubt this week that Bryant could return by Thanksgiving two weeks from now. Before Saturday, Bryant had advanced to light shooting drills with minimum jumping.

Bryant hasn’t spoken to reporters since nine days ago in Houston. The NBA requires that all injured players speak at least once a week.

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Follow L.A. Daily News Lakers beat writer Mark Medina on Twitter. E-mail him at mark.medina@dailynews.com