Ceballos’ Workouts Get More Intense

There is no word on when Cedric Ceballos will return, but there is a timetable.

Out since suffering a partially torn tendon in his right knee Nov. 13, the Laker small forward continues to progress in his rehabilitation, this week increasing the intensity of the workouts and on pace to take another step early next week. That’s when he could start doing drills to simulate game action and test the joint with quick starts, stops and cuts.

And if that goes well, with no unusual pain or swelling to the knee, Ceballos could be cleared to begin full practices with the Lakers the following Monday, 11 days from now. When he would be activated would depend on how soon he gets into game condition, the opinion of the medical staff and Coach Del Harris.

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Kobe Bryant, who no doubt would be considered for a spot in the slam dunk contest at all-star weekend, said he will turn down an invitation if it comes.

“Just because,” he said.

Maybe Bryant does not want to get a reputation for dunking, preferring to be known as an all-around player who can also shoot from the outside (he is making a promising 41.7% of his three-point shots). Or maybe he would rather stay out of the showcase event in what so far has been a sometimes frustrating rookie season and leave the spotlight to others.