Lakers’ Kobe Bryant to play vs Cleveland

Kobe Bryant's status is not clear for Thursday's game vs. Cleveland  (Photo by Keith Birmingham/ Pasadena Star-News)

Kobe Bryant’s status is not clear for Thursday’s game vs. Cleveland (Photo by Keith Birmingham/ Pasadena Star-News)

The mystery faded away as soon as Lakers coach Byron Scott saw Kobe Bryant on Thursday night at Staples Center.

“He was getting dressed,” Scott said. “He wouldn’t have dressed unless he was ready to play.”

So after missing four of the past six games because of a sore right shoulder, Bryant will play when the Lakers (14-51) host the Cleveland Cavaliers (45-18) at Staples Center. As expected, Bryant’s return partly hinged on playing against LeBron James for the final time.

“He feels better,” Scott said. “But it’s also special to go against a great friend of his and a great player.”

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