In their first game without star guard Kobe Bryant to a ruptured Achillies tendon, the Los Angeles Lakers pulled out a crucial 91-86 victory over the San Antonio Spurs Sunday with center Dwight Howard leading the way.

In Bryant's absence Howard has become the focal point of the team's offense, showing up in a big way scoring 26 points, 17 rebounds and three block shots.

"We played hard, trusted each other and dominated. We all know how to play and we're going show everyone what we got".

Howard embraces the challenge of becoming team leader and believes the Lakers have the pieces in place to "make history" and end the season on a high note.

"Despite whatever happened this season, we have a chance to win the next game, make the playoffs and make history," Howard said. "Me being the leader in the team, I believe we can win. Now we'll go out and play like it.

"I have to go out there, play my game and have fun and not let anything affect me as a player," Howard said. "It's not about scoring 50 points or 20 rebounds every night. It's about going out with the same effort and showing the guys we'll hard from the beginning to the end."

After the game, Bryant took to Twitter to share his thoughts on the game, particularly on how Howard stepped up in his performance.

Howard will try to lead the Lakers to a win in their final regular season game Wednesday night when they take on the Houston Rockets.

Below is Howard's post-game interview:

Related Articles:

NBA News And Rumors: Andrew Bynum Skips Team Photo Shot, Does This Imply He Intends To Leave To Free Agency During The Post Season?

Los Angeles Lakers Rumors: Jordan Hill Receives Promising Injury Update News, Will He Be Available For The Post Season?