Lakers' Kobe Bryant: Will take the court Friday

Bryant (shoulder) will play in Friday's matchup with the Pelicans, Mark Medina of L.A. Daily News reports.

Bryant pledged earlier in the week that he would suit up for all of the Lakers' remaining games, so it comes as no surprise he'll take the court Friday. Bryant has struggled recently, posting averages of just 12.8 points, 2.2 rebounds, 0.8 assists and 1.4 steals over his last four games. Don't expect that to discourage Bryant, though, as the future Hall-of-Famer will still get off his fair share of shots. As long as his shoulder doesn't act up during the game, Bryant should play a full minutes load Friday.