Kobe Bryant was voted into this year's NBA All-Star Game as a starting guard, but the Los Angeles Lakers' star made it clear that he would rather not play in the event.

"No, I don't think so," Bryant said flatly.

"With all due respect to the fans who voted me in, and I certainly appreciate that ... but you've got to do the right thing as well. My feeling is you've got to reward these young guys for the work that they've been putting in."

Bryant admitted he'd play limited minutes if he has to play. He added he expected a two-game penalty from the NBA if he skipped it, meaning he might reluctantly suit up.

"It just means somebody will have to lose a spot, unfortunately," Bryant said. "Our backups will be playing a lot if I go in there and do my two minutes and sit down."