LOS ANGELES – Two prominent players were embroiled in controversy, the commissioner awarded L.A. the 2018 All-Star Game and the Lakers even won a game.
The most significant twist to come Tuesday?
That might well have been the simple fact that Kobe Bryant was able to play.
After missing six of the Lakers’ last nine games at Staples Center and with his career in its final few weeks, Bryant played through the pain in his right shoulder to help the Lakers (15-55) to a 107-100 victory over the playoff-bound Memphis Grizzlies (41-31).
Bryant finished with 20 points in 29 minutes, as his night unfolded in familiar fashion.