Lakers’ Bryant has minor knee surgery

Bryant had an arthroscopy on his right knee to remove scar tissue and for treatment of cartilage, temporarily putting the star out of action. Bryant is expected to fully recover in eight to 12 weeks, but will remain on the men’s senior national team.

The guard is expected to still attend the team’s training camp and pre-World Championship tour, but will have limited participation.

"We trust that Kobe will have a total and speedy recovery, and we were pleased that he expressed a willingness to remain as involved with our team as possible through this process," said the team’s managing director Jerry Colangelo. "Kobe being with the team will add to our team chemistry and his presence will help provide valuable off court leadership."

Bryant’s surgery and recovery will not impact his upcoming season commitments with the Lakers.

Last year, Bryant averaged 35.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.84 steals per game in 80 contests with the Lakers, who lost to Phoenix in the first round of the playoffs in seven games.

The USA Team opens training in Las Vegas on July 19.