Los Angeles Lakers coach Byron Scott has downplayed Kobe Bryant's recent comments which suggested that he was considering early retirement.

Bryant has one year remaining on his current contract with the Lakers, but he suggested that he has thought about ending his career this summer.

"I'm sure it's probably crossed his mind more than once, but we haven't talked about that one bit," Scott told reporters.

"It's just game by game, that's how we're going to approach it and then go from there. I think he'll probably tackle that issue once this season is all said and done."

The 36-year-old has struggled in recent months with general body soreness and he has sat out multiple games due to the problem.

However, Scott has urged Bryant to consider how he feels this summer before making any decision on his playing future.