Just when it seemed like nothing was stopping the Lakers, we learn that Kobe Bryant's finger injury is more serious than initially thought. Bryant has torn a ligament in the pinkie finger, but he is vowing not to miss any time.

While everyone from doctors to reportedly Jerry Buss has recommended that he have surgery, Bryant will try to play through it. To make matters worse, Bryant will play in the NBA All-Star Game, because league rules require him to sit out a game if he misses the All-Star Game. However, Western Conference Head Coach Byron Scott said that he'd take Kobe out after just a few minutes if that's what he wanted.

Bryant's toughness is certainly admirable, and most Laker fans know they've got no shot at a title with him sitting out six weeks for surgery. But one can't help but worry if Bryant can make it through the season with nine fingers. How much will this affect his shooting and dribbling? Could this impact his career down the road in any way?

The Lakers next game is Tuesday night at home against Atlanta.