Kobe talks candidly about rehab, retirement: 'Ya I could' play past 2016

Kobe Bryant updated media on his recovery from shoulder surgery Tuesday, and he was his usual straight-shooting self. 

While he said recovery from surgery from a torn right rotator cuff is more encouraging than the Achilles tear he suffered in 2013, he admitted there was a lot of frustration when the latest injury was first diagnosed.

"Jesus Christ man, I don't know if I can do another nine months (of rehab), this is crazy," Bryant said, recalling his thinking at the news he would need another season-ending surgery in January. 

Bryant, speaking to reporters at Staples Center ahead of Tuesday's Pistons-Lakers game, said he is still a month or so away from shooting in the gym.

He reiterated his intention to return and play next season, and when inevitable questions came about whether that would be his final NBA season, he left the door open - ever so slightly. 

"Ya I could," he replied as to whether he would play beyond next year.  "As I sit here right now, do I want to play after next year? No. But that can change."

Given how the 37-in-August-Bryant's last three seasons have ended, that shouldn't come as a surprise.

"After three years of dealing with this crap, you can kind of understand why I don't want to deal with that crap any more."

Bryant said he had been experiencing pain in his right shoulder as far back as 2001.