“I’m not in a slump,” Bryant said. “I just haven’t shot it.”

Nonetheless, his 42.1 percent clip from the field in February has marked a steep statistical decline after having an efficient year. Bryant’s shooting percentage has decreased each month from November (47.7), December (46.6) and January (44.4).

Bryant admitted the elbow tendinitis in his right arm has affected him. But Bryant strongly suggested his new-found facilitating role has contributed to the drop in efficiency. In the Lakers’ 91-85 win Tuesday over the Phoenix Suns, Bryant scored only four points on 1-of-8 shooting, his lowest offensive output since his second year in the NBA.

“It takes me out of my rhythm quite a bit,” Bryant said. “It’s just a matter of getting used to it. I’m working it out.”

Via Mark Medina of LA Daily News