LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Hobbled All Stars Kobe Bryant and Derrick Rose are set to test their ankle injuries on Tuesday when both are expected to lead their respective teams in first round playoff action.
Five-time NBA champion Bryant suffered a sprained left ankle on Sunday when the Los Angeles Lakers lost to the New Orleans Hornets to tie their best-of-seven series at 2-2.
No stranger to playing though injuries during his 15-year career, Bryant refused an MRI but has received treatment and coach Phil Jackson said he expected his leading guard would play, which Bryant indicated was a likelihood.
"I've played through so many (injuries), it's kind of old hat," Bryant told reporters. "It's going to take a lot to stop me from playing."
Rose, the Chicago Bulls' top scorer and a leading candidate to win the NBA MVP Award, also sustained a left ankle sprain against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday.
Rose had been wearing a walking boot until Monday's practice, but with the Bulls leading the series 3-1 and looking to close out the Pacers he is determined to play.
"I'm definitely playing," Rose said. "It's not broke, so I'll be out there."
(Writing by Jahmal Corner; Editing by Greg Stutchbury)
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.