The right knee that had arthroscopy surgery appears to be getting stronger by the day, Kobe Bryant is reporting, which is good news for Lakers fans.

"The knee's getting healthier and stronger day by day," the Los Angeles Lakers' star told the Associated Press in a telephone interview. "I haven't been able to run yet; I should be cleared to run in a while. I've been doing a lot of weight training, things of that nature."

Bryant hopes to hit the court running before the end of the month ? just in time for the start of training camp Oct. 3.

"We just have to play it by ear," he said. "The most important thing is to get all the strength in my leg back. You don't want to rush it."

Bryant expects to be 100 per cent healthy by the time the Lakers open the season Oct. 31 against the Phoenix Suns.