Kobe Bryant to sit out against San Antonio (Web links)

--The Times’ Mike Bresnahan mentions Kobe Bryant’s left shin has improved, but not enough to play San Antonio.

--Fox Sports’ Sam Amico details how veteran teams, such as the Spurs and the Lakers, still remain contenders.

--NBA.com’s Fran Blinebury remains concerned about Andrew Bynum’s behavior.

--The Orange County Register’s Kevin Ding notes that Bryant always plays if he’s physically capable.

--ESPN Dallas’ Tim MacMahon argues Lamar Odom’s act in Dallas grew tiresome.

--ESPN Los Angeles’ Dave McMenamin reports Bryant isn’t wearing a protective boot anymore.

--The San Antonio Express-News’ Mike Monroe mentions the importance of the Lakers-Spurs game.

--Sports Illustrated’s Britt Robson ranks the Spurs at No. 1 overall.

--The Daily News’ Elliot Teaford observed that Bryant limped after getting off the trainer’s table during Tuesday’s practice.

--Lakers.com’s Mike Trudell catches up with Ramon Sessions on how he’s fitting in with the Lakers.

--Silver Screen and Roll’s Ben R explains how the Lakers are treading water.

--Forum Blue and Gold’s Darius Soriano breaks down the Lakers’ defensive decline.

Tweet of the Day: “Perspective on Kobe’s shin: He usually plays when he could play. But if he doesn’t rest this properly, condition will just return.” -- KevinDing (Orange County Register’s Kevin Ding)

Rick Friedman Reader Comment of the Day: “A healthy Kobe is a big factor for the Lakers. Another big factor, though, is avoiding the Grizzlies in the opening round. The Clippers should be concerned, too. I think they could take out the L.A. teams as the home or road team. I was there when the Lakers lost to them at Staples. The Blue Bears have size and a lot of speed.” -- TomHicks