Kobe Bryant is out for Lakers’ final two exhibition games

According to Mike Trudell of Lakers.com, Kobe Bryant will miss the Lakers’ final two exhibition games.

The All-Star guard was day-to-day before Wednesday night’s exhibition against the Clippers.

After practice on Tuesday, Bryant said that his foot was in enough discomfort from a bruise that he would probably not play even if it were a regular-season game.

The Lakers also play Thursday night in San Diego against the Sacramento Kings.

Trudell notes that Bryant “will be re-evaluated over the weekend to check his status in advance of Tuesday evening’s season opener against Dallas.�

The Lakers start the season against the Dallas Mavericks at Staples Center, followed by a quick visit to Portland on Halloween to take on the Trail Blazers.

Coach Mike Brown indicated he probably would start Jodie Meeks in Bryant’s place for the exhibition, although he allowed for the possibility of using forward Devin Ebanks, perhaps as the third-quarter starter.

The team had hoped to have its powerhouse starting lineup on the floor for more than one exhibition game.

The team’s goal is to be at full strength and playing its best basketball for the playoffs. Exhibition and even early season games aren’t a priority.

Metta World Peace, who was said to have dislocated the middle finger on his right hand, denied the digit ever popped out of place.

“I didn’t dislocate it,� said Peace. “I just hit it.�

Although he’s practiced with the finger wrapped for protection, World Peace said that he won’t need it for games.

“It’s not that bad,� World Peace said.

Forward-center Jordan Hill is expected to return Wednesday night. Although the Lakers might hold out center Dwight Howard an extra game, the team’s only current injury of significant merit is Bryant’s foot.

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