LA Lakers NBA Playoffs: Kobe Has Knee Drained, Bynum Hurting

The LA Times is reporting that Kobe Bryant had “a significant amount of fluid” drained from his right knee and has not practiced with the team since the Utah series.

Lakers center Andrew Bynum has only practiced once with the team since defeating the Jazz.  He said his right knee injury was “getting a little worse” after taking part in a team scrimmage on Saturday.

Of Bryant, Lakers coach Phil Jackson said “He came out [Sunday] and shot a little bit and tried to get in rhythm. We hope that he’s on board and his game is right at that point where it needs to be.”

HIM’s Take:  Obviously, these two injuries are significant to the Laker’s Championship chances.  We continue to watch Kobe in amazement- as he has endured injury after injury this season and continued to will the Lakers through to the Western Conference Championship Series verses the Phoenix Suns.  Keep a close watch on Kobe’s energy and stamina in tonight’s Game 1 at Staples Center.