Kobe Bryant to return Sunday against Toronto Raptors

Kobe Bryant will return to the Lakers’ lineup on Sunday night in a game against the Toronto Raptors at Staples Center.

Both Bryant and the Lakers simultaneously posted a video clip on their respective Facebook accounts that ends with the text, “The legend continues . . . December 8.�

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Bryant was originally injured on April 12 in a win over the Golden State Warriors. He had surgery the following morning and was given a six- to nine-month recovery period.

The Lakers will play without Bryant on Friday night in Sacramento. The All-Star guard stayed in Los Angeles to work out individually in preparation for his Sunday return.

Through 18 games without Bryant, the Lakers have managed to stay at .500. A victory in Sacramento would give the team a winning record despite being deprived of their best player as well as veteran point guard Steve Nash (back).

Judging by Coach Mike D’Antoni’s scrimmages, Bryant seems likely to replace Jodie Meeks in the starting lineup with Wesley Johnson at small forward.

Bryant could also see time at point guard or small forward.

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Email Eric Pincus at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.