Bryant stars as Lakers beat Pelicans, Lowry helps Raptors past Blazers

Kobe Bryant led the Los Angeles Lakers to a thrilling 99-96 win over the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA on Thursday.

The retiring Lakers great had 12 of his 27 points in the fourth quarter at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.

Bryant finished with a double-double that included 12 rebounds as the struggling Lakers improved to 11-41.

Anthony Davis starred for the Pelicans with a huge double-double of his own, posting 39 points and 11 rebounds.

Kyle Lowry guided the Toronto Raptors to their 110-103 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers.

The guard had 30 points, eight assists and six rebounds as the Raptors made it 13 wins from their past 14.

The Detroit Pistons blew a lead before recovering to claim a 111-105 win over the New York Knicks.

Andre Drummond had yet another double-double with 17 points and 13 rebounds as the Pistons recovered from giving up a 27-point lead.

Corey Brewer (24 points) and Trevor Ariza (22) saw the Houston Rockets past the Phoenix Suns 111-105.