Kobe Bryant Proving Impact In Final Season

From Canada, With Love

Dec 7, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) against Toronto Raptors guard

(10) at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

A big part of Kobe Bryant’s historic career will forever be tied to the Toronto Raptors.  It was against this team that he had his scoring performance for the ages with 81 points.

Bryant’s health was much improved from the night before and he provided 21 points in the Lakers competitive effort.  His phenomenal game years ago was forgiven and forgotten for the night as fans cheered Bryant anytime he made a successful play.

When the Black Mamba left the game at the end of the fourth quarter, the announcer acknowledged his career as he left the court.

Bryant’s finale, predictably, over-shadowed the return of Sixth Man Lou Williams who played against his former squad for the first time since joining the Lakers.

After the game, players DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowery congratulated Bryant and fans of both teams greeted him with a standing ovation as he exited the tunnel in Toronto for the final time.

DeRozan and the Raptors presented Bryant with a one of a kind gift after the game.

Next: Game 6: Minnesota