Its been about two and a half months since Bynum’s MCL injury, but with news of his recent steps towards recovery, many are hoping that the center will be back on the court for the last few games of the seasons. It could happen as early as tonight when the Lakers face the Denver Nuggets at the Staples Center.
“I’m just excited, I really can’t wait”, says the twenty-one year old. “I’m ready to go. Just waiting on my release...I think tomorrow is possible.”
For the past few weeks Bynum has been exercising, regaining strength, and rebuilding his game with the help and encouragement of the Lakers coaches and staff. Practicing with full contact with D.J. Mbenga for the past week has also helped. “It just gets you ready and in the mindset of playing with contact,” said Bynum.
Teammates are also looking forward to Bynum’s return as he is such a valuable asset to the team.
In recent team practice Odom said Bynum looked “Awesome.” And that he just has to “go out there and play with energy and effort.”
Although the Lakers have still kept their number one spot in the Western Conference even with the absence of one of their star players, the team could no doubt use some extra help and Bynum’s return would be just the help they need. Before the injury, the Lakers were 37-9 and since then have gone 25-7. Bynum averaged 26.2 points a game and was a key defensive player.
Coach Phil Jackson isn’t as eager to let the young player back on the court and is being more cautious and not as forthcoming with information.
“We’ll probably asses how he feels tomorrow after todays practice, and then make a judgement on that,” said Jackson.
"He's doing pretty good, we're pleased with his progress. I don't know how much more he can get out of the activity level that he's doing right now. He's got to get playing here pretty soon,” Jackson concluded.
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