The Los Angeles Lakers opened their pre-season with a defeat as star guard Kobe Bryant made his long-awaited comeback, albeit briefly.

Sunday saw the Lakers lose 90-71 to the Utah Jazz but all eyes were on Bryant.

Appearing for the first time since he tore a rotator cuff in his right shoulder in January, Bryant spent 12 minutes on court for five points.

The 37-year-old - entering the final year of his Lakers contract as he prepares for his 20th NBA season - was one-of-five from the floor.

Bryant's return did not get off to the best of starts, with his early three-point attempt hitting the side of the backboard.

Louis Williams (14) and Nick Young (10) were the only Lakers players with double-figure points.

The Jazz were inspired by Derrick Favors, who posted a game-high 16 points and nine rebounds.

All-Star guard Kyle Lowry starred as the Toronto Raptors downed the Los Angeles Clippers 93-73.

Lowry scored 26 points in 21 minutes in Vancouver.

The Clippers, who lost their pre-season opener, were led by JJ Redick's 15 points.

Meanwhile, Chris Bosh returned as the Miami Heat lost 90-77 to the Charlotte Hornets.