The Lakers report a decision has not yet been made in an official statement:
Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant, who suffered a torn rotator cuff injury during Wednesday night’s game in New Orleans, was examined today in Los Angeles by team physician Dr. Steve Lombardo of the Kerlan Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic. Dr. Lombardo confirmed the diagnosis of a torn rotator cuff and discussed options, including the possibility of surgery, with Bryant. Bryant is scheduled to be examined by Dr. Neal ElAttrache of the Kerlan Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic on Monday, and a decision is expected to be made at that time.
ESPN's Ramona Shelburne first reported the Lakers are expecting the worst.
Injuries have plagued Bryant immensely over the past 21 months. A torn Achilles and fractured bone in his knee limited him to just six games during the 2013-14 campaign, and now this season likely ends with just 35 games played. Those are the two lowest totals in his career.
Considering the recent run of injuries and extended mileage on the 36-year-old's legs, whispers of retirement will surely continue to grow, as ESPN's Israel Gutierrez suggested:
However, as ForumBlueandGold.com's Darius Soriano argued, it's unlikely the future Hall of Famer wants to succumb to injuries:
Perhaps Bryant, who has been in the league for 19 years and has recently gone through two extensive rehabs, is tired of pushing his body to the limit. Most normal human beings sure would be. But he does have one more year on his contract, and with more than nine months for this rehab, it's hard to imagine Mamba—an extremely proud, determined person—not b...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
