The Los Angeles Lakers are very confident in Phil Jackson’s return for the season opener against the Phoenix Suns on Oct. 31, less than a month after hip surgery.

However, when it comes to their star players, including Brown, Mihm and Bryant, the Lackers are more pessimistic about a quick comeback. The Lackers almost certainly start the season without Kwame Brown and Chris Mihm. As for Kobe Bryant, his status is yet to be determined, but there’s very little chance the forward will be ready in time now.

Jackson, 61, was forced to undergo hip replacement surgery on October 3 when his worsening condition left him with no alternative. But the coach initially thought he might be able to avoid surgery by resting during off-season layoff and rehab. Jackson made a quick recovery and will probably be able to sit on the bench even before the start of the season for the final preseason game in Anaheim on Oct. 26. It will be the second season for Jackson, who signed a three-year deal with the Lakers last year. Since his surgery, he’s been restricted to part-time coaching duty for the entire month, entrusting Kurt Rambis with running the team through training camp and the exhibition game.

Bryant underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right knee on July 15. The forward, who wanted to play at least one preseason game, is highly doubtful for the Lakers’ exhibition on Sunday against the Suns in San Diego and next week’s game in Denver. The All-Star player is now nearly into his 15th week of rehab, while initial estimates of rehab time were put at eight to 12 weeks tops. Even though he will be put on the court, some raised concerns about Bryant’s ability to play well after a month of poor physical preparation and limited preparation.

Another major uncertainty is the Lakers’ ability to play very cohesively in November after an October characterized by multiple player injuries. Brown is out for three or four weeks after injuring his shoulder last weekend. Another star player, Mihm, is still recovering from off-season ankle surgery and Vladimir Radmanovic, who was LA’s top summer acquisition, was forced to rest due to a sprained ligament in his shooting hand.

The last season has also been characterized by a slew of injuries that led the team to a poor 45-37 record. But it was enough to allow them to return to the playoffs after a one-year absence. However, it looks like they will have to play without many of their key players for the first few games at home.