Lakers place Bryant on IL

Bryant sustained the injury with 5:39 remaining in the first quarter of Thursday’s game against the Cavaliers when he landed on the foot of Cleveland’s Ira Newble while battling for a rebound.

The All-Star had to be carried off the court and into the locker room and did not return. X-rays taken were negative and an MRI on Friday revealed the extent of the injury.

In 34 games this season, Bryant is averaging 27.5 points, 6.6 assists and 6.3 rebounds per contest. He is second in the league in scoring and first in minutes played (42.0 mpg).

Los Angeles activated Tony Bobbitt off the injured list to take Bryant’s roster spot. He was sidelined since early December with a strained lower back.