Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant is out for at least six weeks after hyper-extending his knee on Tuesday against the Memphis Grizzlies. The loss of Bryant further depletes the Lakers' backcourt depth, which could once again make veteran Pau Gasol the subject of trade talks.
The hyperextension occurred in the third quarter as Bryant was backing Grizzlies guard Tony Allen down into the post, according to the team website. Bryant continued to play with the bone fracture and finished the game.
Los Angeles won, 96-92.
Official press release (via LALakers.com):
"Lakers guard Kobe Bryant, who hyperextended his left knee in Tuesday night's game at Memphis, had an MRI exam this morning and was examined by team physician Dr. Steve Lombardo of the Kerlan Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic. Results of the MRI show that Bryant has a fracture of the lateral tibial plateau of his knee. He is expected to be out approximately six weeks."
Surgery isn't required as the bone will heal itself, CBS Sports reports. Another positive is the injury isn't related to the Achilles tendon Bryant tore in April.
Xavier Henry will move to point guard and Jodie Meeks will start alongside him as the 2-guard, according to the team website. Jordan Farmar (hamstring) is expected to be out for at least another week, Steve Nash (nerves) doesn't yet have a timetable for his return and Steve Blake (elbow) will miss at least six weeks.
Earlier on Thursday, before the announcement of Bryant's injury, sources told ESPN that the Lakers were no longer interested in trading Gasol. With another loss in the backcourt, general manager Mitch Kupchak's attitude may change.
Gasol was mentioned on Sunday in a potential trade for New York Knicks center Tyson Chandler, although the Lakers never officially contacted the Knicks about it.
