By John Nadel

Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Kobe Bryant walked a bit gingerly as he emerged from the training area at Lakers headquarters to speak with reporters Tuesday, remaining on his feet since sitting is not a preferred option because of his sore lower back.

“Quite a bit (of pain), but it’s a lot better than it was yesterday,” Bryant said with a smile — his mood clearly positive. “It’ll be fine.”

Bryant tweaked his back in the opening minutes of Sunday’s 123-115 overtime loss at Utah that tied the Western Conference semifinals 2-2. Sore back and all, he had 33 points eight rebounds and 10 assists while playing 46 minutes.

Bryant said he’ll definitely play tonight in Game 5 at Staples Center, adding he would have given it a go had there been a game Tuesday night.

“The key is to know what you can and can’t do,” he said. “I kind of know what I can and can’t do. I hope I can do what’s necessary to help us win.”

Bryant didn’t practice Tuesday, spending his time in suburban El Segundo getting treatment and watching film. He said he hoped to participate in the shootaround this morning.

And he outlined a couple areas of inconvenience because of his back.

“Sleeping’s tough,” Bryant said. “This car ride home is going to be a beast, sitting in traffic. I’ll stretch out when I get home.”

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