Kobe Bryant plans to play in his final “road” game against the Clippers. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht/Los Angeles Daily News)
The issue seemingly becomes non-negotiable even if Kobe Bryant’s right shoulder bothers him.
Ever since announcing his retirement, Bryant has never missed a road game that marked his final appearance at an opponent’s venue. Bryant will carry that same mindset when the Lakers (16-60) visit the Clippers (48-28) on Tuesday even if the designated road game takes place in the familiar confines of Staples Center.
“As far as I know, as of right now he is,” Lakers coach Byron Scott said of Bryant’s playing status following morning shootaround on Tuesday. “Unless something changes.”
The Clippers plan to provide a tribute for Bryant as all road opponents have. Currently, Scott has loved the farewells the San Antonio Spurs and Golden State Warriors have given. The Spurs played a video tribute that lasted two minutes and 30 seconds, filled with highlights as well as tributes from Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and veterans Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker. The Warriors featured a tribute from executive and former Lakers general manager Jerry West. The Warriors also gave Bryant a vacation package to Napa Valley as well as a bottle of wine.
Scott said he likely will play Bryant around his season average of 28.4 minutes per game against the Clippers on Tuesday to preserve him for a designated home game against the Clippers on Wednesday. Scott has planned to play Bryant in the 30-minute range in the Lakers’ two remaining home games, including the season finale against the Utah Jazz on April 13.
Earlier this week, Scott said he planned to play Bryant more conservatively in the Lakers’ three-game trip this week in New Orleans (Friday), Houston (Sunday) and Oklahoma City (Monday). Scott has not determined specifics yet so he can see how Bryant will play in the Lakers’ upcoming back-to-back against the Clippers. Yet, Scott said he is mindful about handling Bryant with care so he can play in the Lakers’ season finale in what will mark his last game of his 20-year NBA career.
“That finale is coming closer and closer each day,” Scott said. “We can all see it. I want him to play that game 30 plus minutes, go out there and enjoy it.”
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