Los Angeles Lakers: Kobe Bryant expected to miss at least 2 more weeks

Jan 24, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Kobe Bryant (24) against the Orlando Magic during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sportsw

If you thought that Kobe Bryant was going to return sooner rather than later, you’re right, except for the fact that he’ll be out at least two more weeks.

The fractured lateral tibial plateau in Bryant’s left knee just hasn’t completely healed yet, even though the Lakers had originally thought that a medical re-evaluation could’ve came today in which he might’ve been cleared to play.

Bryant’s level of discomfort is such that his visit with Lakers doctor Steve Lombardo on Tuesday evening before the Lakers face the Indiana Pacers will not even include an MRI or any other diagnostic procedure to judge the bone’s healing, a team source tells Bleacher Report.

That same source tells BR that Bryant is expected to miss at least two more weeks, perhaps even another month.

The Lakers are 4-16 since Bryant went down with the knee injury, however, enforcements may be on the way. Jordan Farmar and Steve Nash are expected to return later this week, or at some point next week.