USA TODAY Sports
Kobe Bryant scored 40 points after guaranteeing that the Lakers would make the playoffs earlier on Friday.
Kobe Bryant scored 40 points on 15-of-23 shooting from the field to lead the Lakers over the Trail Blazers, 111-107, on Friday.
Dwight Howard complemented Bryant by recording his 28th double-double of the season as he finished with 19 points and 16 rebounds. Four other Lakers - Metta World Peace, Earl Clark, Antawn Jamison and Jodie Meeks - scored in double-figures.
All five Portland starters scored in double-figures, led by J.J. Hickson`s 22 points and 11 rebounds. The double-double was Hickson`s 29th of the season. Nicolas Batum also had 22 points on 9-of-14 shooting from the field for the Trail Blazers.
The Lakers have now won two games in a row after the All Star break to improve to 27-29 on the season and 18-11 at home. The loss was Portland`s seventh in a row as they dropped to 25-30 on the season. The Lakers now have sole possession of ninth place in the Western Conference standings.
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