Kobe Bryant and Lakers coach Byron Scott continue to take steps to lesson Bryant’s workload, and Scott said he “can’t argue with the results.” (Jae C. Hong/The Associated Press)

By Tony Ciniglio
Daily News Staff Writer

Lakers coach Byron Scott had texted Kobe Bryant that he did not need to come to practice on Saturday.

Bryant arrived anyway.

“By the time he got my text, he was already on his way,” Scott said. “Once he got here, I told him to get something to eat, get back out and I’d see him tomorrow.”

So Bryant did not officially practice, part of Scott’s plan to lessen the workload for the aging 36-year-old superstar.

Bryant is also taking less shots per game since sitting out three straight games following fatigue in late December.

Scott called his conversations with Bryant about the topic “interesting.”

“He’s really been trying to keep his numbers down,” Scott said. “He’s shooting 14, 15, maybe 16 shots a game. I want him in the 18 or 19 area. But I can’t argue with the results. He’s been getting everyone involved, he still rebounding the ball and he’s getting 7, 8 or 9 assists. He’s still being aggressive looking for shots and aggressive looking for his teammates.

“I would like his shots up, but I can’t argue with the way he’s playing.”