Permanent damage on Kobe Bryant's index finger

[CKR13]

The LA Lakers press stated after Bryant went to a medical exam regarding the muscular damage on his index finger.

The middle knuckle on that critical finger on Bryant's shooting hand is so debilitated by arthritis after the past season of misuse and overuse that there may be no real way to fix it. Bryant will consult with specialists in July to figure out his options, but arthritis is not a problem that can just be cleaned up with arthroscopic surgery or wished away with a little rest.

Also reported by yahoo!sports.

[Delibasic]

fark that's not good. i hope he recovers fully or as close to 100% as possible

[sinobball]

Hate Kobe all you can, but there is a reason he is the best in the game. How many athletes are willing to sacrifice as much as this guy? Especially since they are paid millions anyway.

[Dtown]

Kobe's a warrior, don't especially like him, but I sure as hell respect him.

[Delibasic]

Kobe is a farking legend plus his wife is very cute.

[CKR13]

It is likely that Kobe Bryant will wear an index pad wrapping for his finger for the rest of his career.

It would look something like this

WARNING VERY GRAPHIC:

[Dan123]

He's a proven warrior .. I'm sure he'll get through this.

Go for another Three-peat Lakers!!

[cb1230]

Knowing Kobe, he would fight through it. The great work ethic this guy has, this is just another obstacle he can just work his way over it. It'll probably only affect him like 3-10 games till he gets used to it.

[ballar]

Don't be curious why Jordan Farmar left the Lakers. Just remember that he's the one who threw the errant pass that led to Kobe's busted knuckle. We know Kobe holds grudges, so it's only logical to assume his finger does too.

[lbtriggerman]

I think I have the same injury but just on my pinky. :P

As for Kobe, that's tough. Playing with an injured finger on the shooting hand. A simple thing like that can easily change your shooting pattern.

[dxjayrock2008]

So, he can't point someone now? Lol.

[kaiziken_pinas]

that means he won't play for Team USA?

awww. I hate him when he's playing as a Laker but love him if he's playing for his country....

[CKR13]

Kobe Bryant begged off from the National Team before the NBA finals, citing that he needed a full summer to rest and recuperate.

[CKR13]

Kobe Byrant underwent knee surgery and his timetable of return will be at the time when the Los Angeles Lakers opens training camp. Also, Byrant underwent some therapeutic procedure for his index finger prior to his surgery.