MRI shows torn rotator cuff for Lakers G Kobe Bryant

Lakers shooting guard Kobe Bryant underwent an MRI on his injured shoulder Thursday morning, which revealed a tear of the rotator cuff, the team announced.

Bryant injured his right shoulder in the second half of Wednesday's 96-80 loss to New Orleans and was absent from Thursday's practice. Although the preliminary results revealed a tear, Bryant will return to Los Angeles later on Thursday and will be examined by team doctors on Friday. The team is expected to release another update on his status after his follow-up tests, leaving his status for the second half of the season up in the air.

Bryant is averaging 22.3 points, 5.7 rebounds and 5.6 rebounds per game this season. He is shooting 37.3 percent from the field and 29.3 percent from 3-point territory through 35 games.