Persistent pain in his left foot forced Kobe Bryant to be a spectator at practice Monday. Coach Rudy Tomjanovich also didn't dismiss the idea that the ailment would force Bryant's minutes to be restricted during upcoming games.

"I don't know," Tomjanovich said. "We'll see how he feels in a couple days."

Tomjanovich had hoped Monday and today would provide the Lakers a chance to become more cohesive, since their practice time has been limited by a hectic schedule this month. But it's hard to imagine how much the Lakers can accomplish in practice with their leader watching, not playing.

Bryant, diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot, averaged 39.5 minutes during last week's four-game trip. But he made just 37.5 percent of his shots from the field to fuel discussion as to whether he might need time off to rest.