With news that Kobe Bryant could be nearing a return, practicing for the first time with the team since he suffered a torn Achilles' tendon in April, the Lakers are facing a brighter future after a 4-7 start.
The team has lost four of five but will have a chance to regroup with four days off after Sunday's game at Staples Center against the Detroit Pistons.
Through Friday, the Lakers were the only team to have played 11 games -- most against strong competition.
The combined record of the 10 teams the Lakers have faced (with two battles against the New Orleans Pelicans) over three weeks is 54-38 (58.7%).
In comparison, the perfect 9-0 Indiana Pacers have played teams with a collective 30-48 record (38.5%).
The exact timeline for Bryant's return remains a mystery. Will he be limited or the same Bryant who has won five NBA championships?
