The Los Angeles Lakers open their 2012-2013 NBA campaign full of the hope and excitement brought by the summer additions of center Dwight Howard and point guard Steve Nash. But the star power could take a hit in the season opener Tuesday with Kobe Bryant possibly unavailable with a foot injury.
"Obviously, you want Kobe on the floor," head coach Mike Brown told Trevor Wong of NBA.com. "You want everybody on the floor the whole time. But at the end of the day, this is why it’s a team. Other guys have to step up and be ready to play if he can’t go."
Dirk Nowitzki is already out for the Mavericks, recovering from offseason surgery on his right knee. With the caveat that Bryant is a game-time decision, here are the probable starters for Tuesday's nationally televised contest on TNT.
Mavericks
Point guard: Darren Collison
Shooting guard: O.J. Mayo
Small forward: Shawn Marion
Power forward: Elton Brand
Center: Eddy Curry
Lakers
Point guard: Steve Nash
Shooting guard: Kobe Bryant
Small forward: Metta World Peace
Power forward: Pau Gasol
Center: Dwight Howard