We told you yesterday that Kobe Bryant sat on the bench Tuesday night as Los Angeles beat Denver 90-88. He received an ovation when he walked on to the floor in sweats during warm-ups.

The Black Mamba rejoined the Lakers making steady progress from a torn Achilles tendon. While the fans of the Los Angeles franchise enjoy this news expecting the back on court of the fourth-leading scorer in NBA history, he said not to be available for the moment until he gets entirely healed and ready.

“I haven’t said anything (about a return date),” Bryant said. “I just keep it all open right now. I don’t know why you guys are so hell-bent on deadlines. It’s like the most ridiculous thing to me. It’s entertaining. When I’m ready, I’m ready.”