The Los Angeles Lakers remain in control of the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference with a 113-106 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night. Los Angeles won their second consecutive game in 24-hours with yet another scoring outburst from Kobe Bryant.
Bryant scored a season-best 47 points to lead the Lakers high scoring effort. The star guard also capped off the night with eight rebounds, five assists, three assists and four blocks.
The Lakers gained a full game lead over ninth-place Utah and increased their odds of making the playoffs with three final home games remaining. However, each game at Staples Center will have the Lakers matched up against playoff-bound teams: Golden State, San Antonio and Houston.
Portland is officially eliminated from playoff contention with the loss, despite a career-high 38 points from rookie Damian Lillard. The Trail Blazers have lost nine straight, the most by the franchise since an 11-game skid in the 2005-06 season.
Los Angeles will face Golden State on Friday at 10:30 P.M. ET. Fans can watch the game live on NBA.com with a paid subscription.
Highlights from the game an be viewed below"
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