Lakers G Bryant opts against surgery

Sep 9, 2008 - 8:05 PM LOS ANGELES (Ticker) -- Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant has decided not to have surgery on his right pinkie finger.

The NBA's reigning MVP, Bryant announced Tuesday on his web site, kb24.com, that he opted against surgery when he learned that it could keep him sidelined for 12 weeks.

"When the doctors told me recovery from a procedure could be 12 weeks, I just decided now was not the time to have surgery," Bryant said.

Bryant, 30, played in all 82 games and averaged 28.3 points last season despite suffering ligament damage in the pinkie against the New Jersey Nets on February 5. The Lakers reached the NBA Finals, losing to the Boston Celtics in six games.

"I've always felt that I can still focus and play at a high level even though various injuries," Bryant said. "That's just part of the game."

Offseason surgery was recommended, but Bryant postponed the operation to play in the Beijing Olympics, where he helped lead the United States to the gold medal.

"I am just really excited and looking forward to be being there with the guys when camp opens in a few weeks," Bryant said.

The Lakers open camp on September 27 and host the Portland Trail Blazers in their season opener on October 28.