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Lakers vs. Mavericks probable starters: Kobe Bryant a game-time decision

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