The Los Angeles Lakers ended a seven game losing streak on Friday night with a 116-111 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. The Lakers were led by Kobe Bryant's 65 points. Bryant scored 33 of his 65 in the fourth quarter and overtime.

You can't help but notice that injuries have killed the Lakers this season because they started the season 26-13. Part of that was also the improved play of Kobe Bryant. Instead of looking to score, Bryant was also spreading the ball around more, evident by his assists per game going up by 8 assists per game. However, last night the Lakers needed a spark. They needed someone to step up and lead them to victory and Bryant did just that. I know he hasn't won a championship since Shaq went to Miami, but give him a few more years and an injury free season, and I think you will see Kobe Bryant once again raising the NBA championship trophy.

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