Kobe Bryant is expected to be ruled out for the remainder of the season, according to team sources.

The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to make the announcement this week.

Bryant returned from a torn Achillies tendon and played six games this season, but the star guard fractured his knee on Dec. 17.

Bryant originally was expected to miss six weeks but has admitted his recovery has been a slow process. He signed a two-year, $48 million extension in November.