Kobe Bryant suffers left leg contusion, expected to play Saturday vs. Warriors

(UPDATE: 10/13 11:15 p.m) Kobe Bryant did not return as a precaution, and Byron Scott said he's "fine" and expects him to play Saturday against the Warriors, according to Lakers sideline reporter Mike Trudell.

Kobe Bryant left the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason game against the Sacramento Kings early, suffering what has been officially listed as a left lower-leg contusion, the team announced. He is not expected to miss time with the minor injury.

Bryant's return to play has been impressive, shooting well from deep while hitting his array of low-block jumpers he's come to lean on. Byron Scott's tried to keep his minute load down, limiting him in exhibition while using the extra time to evaluate various prospects on the roster.

Kobe walked off the court under his own care, but was definitely limping before finally subbing out. Hopefully this ends up being just another bruise, like we were lucky to hear about D'Angelo Russell, and this doesn't have any lasting implications. The Lakers next game is Saturday against the Golden State Warriors. We'll update Bryant's status as the team releases any news on his leg injury.

Here's the play that Kobe came up limping after: