As we all clearly witnessed, Kobe Bryant hurt his back early in the game on Sunday afternoon in Utah as the Lakers went down in overtime to the tough Jazz. The Utah Jazz played their hearts out and worked hard in overtime to secure the home win and extend the series to six games.

Andrei Kirelinko had the assignment of guarding Kobe Bryant and I must admit, he did a fine job. Actually, he did a great job. Kobe still went off for 30+ points, but those points were damn hard to accumulate. He worked hard to get those baskets and shot a lousy percentage. His free throw shooting was off as well bringing the teams percentage even lower.

After the game, Bryant conducted his post game interview for the media standing up rather than sitting down behind the table like all coaches and players do. He spoke of the superb defense that AK47 played on him and he made it clear that he would be ready to play on Wednesday in Game 5 back at Staples Center.

Tuesday was another tough day for him though. He showed up at the training facility in El Segundo, just like every other Lakers teammate of his, however he didn’t practice. He has gone through round the clock therapy on his back to make sure he recovers in time to give his best effort. We all know that game 5 is almost a “must win” because if the Jazz come away with a victory, it will be quite difficult beating them back in Salt Lake City in game 6.

When asked of his back today he spoke confidently. “Quite a bit [of pain], but it’s a lot better than it was yesterday,” Bryant said with a smile — his mood clearly positive. “It’ll be fine. I think the key is to know what you can and can’t do,” he said. “I kind of know what I can and can’t do. I hope I can do what’s necessary to help us win. Sleeping’s tough. This car ride home is going to be a beast, sitting in traffic. I’ll stretch out when I get home.”

Lakers coach Phil Jackson said he believes there’s a possibility Bryant might not shoot that well, but added: “As long as he can play, we’re satisfied. He’ll do OK.” Jackson also said he wasn’t feeling the pressure a deadlocked series might bring. Having coached nine NBA championship teams, he’s been in this kind of situation many times before. “We know we have homecourt advantage. We earned it,” Jackson said. “We feel very confident in our building. I personally am for the cut-slash game. I like speed. Our team is long, lanky, lean. You’ve got to beat the opponent to the punch. You’ve got to deliver the first blow. That’s what I’m telling the guys.”

Well, all I know is that I can’t wait to see this game tomorrow night. I finish my last final of the spring semester at 6:00PM and will be ready to watch the Lakers at 6:01PM!! I will be on this Lakers blog putting together a live play by play for the game! Prepare to enjoy!