NBA: L.A. Lakers 99, Charlotte 98

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 5 (UPI) -- Kobe Bryant hit two free throws with seven seconds remaining and finished with 29 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers past the Charlotte Bobcats, 99-98.

Center Chris Mihm scored a season-high 21 points and collected nine rebounds for Los Angeles, while Sasha Vujacic added 12 points off the bench in the win.

Brevin Knight had 17 points and eight assists for Charlotte, but missed two critical free throws in the waning moments that allowed the Lakers to take the lead.

Melvin Ely poured in 20 points on 10-of-13 shooting for the Bobcats, who have dropped four straight. Bernard Robinson chipped in 13 points in the loss.