Kobe Bryant passes Michael Jordan for most All-Star points

On a night where Kobe Bryant became the leading scorer in NBA All-Star game history, he hardly looked like the best player on the court. In a game that could have featured a Bryant game-winner, he offered none. At a time where he could have showcased highlight reels, Bryant didn't have any. But that's fine. The Western Conference's 152-149 victory Sunday over the Eastern Conference doesn't mean anything. It just confirmed never-ending story lines that are ingrained in our minds. LeBron James' 36 points on 15-of-23 shooting and numerous dunks revealed his tremendous talent. Yet, his last-possession turnover sparked more punch lines about closing games. Kevin Durant's 36 points on a 14-of-25 clip earned his first All-Star most valuable player award and showcased his continual improvement as an elite player. Andrew Bynum's first All-Star appearance shows he's reaching his potential. But his six-minute stint because of right knee soreness sparks health concerns, even if his procedure this weekend was routine. As for Bryant, his 27 points on nine-of-17 shooting surpassing Jordan's All-Star scoring record with 271 points through 13 All-Star game appearances showcases his longevity. But his failure to surpass Hawks forward Bob Petitt with five All-Star MVP awards shows the emerging talent around Bryant. He has bigger things to worry about, though, than going on a scoring spree after Dwyane Wade gave him a bloody nose in the third quarter. An innovative procedure on both his surgically repaired right knee and sprained left ankle this summer ensured a healthier and more productive campaign where he's leading the league in scoring (28 points per game). But other signs show Bryant must pace himself for the remaining 33 regular-season games. Despite Lakers Coach Mike Brown's insistence that he'll limit Bryant between 33 and 35 minutes per night, Bryant still has logged 38.2 minutes per game. His legs have looked noticeably tired in the last two games, where he's averaged 19.5 points on 28.2% shooting. And barring the Lakers making a major trade before the March 15 deadline, it's plausible Bryant will have to carry the same burden in the second half of the season and into the playoffs. Surely, Bryant had his eyes set on adding more to his storied legacy during All-Star weekend. He opened the game with 11 first-quarter points. When Dwight Howard challenged Bryant to drive past him on the baseline in the third quarter, Bryant took up the offer and earned a trip to the free-throw line. Bryant talked trash to James after he passed up a shot on the final possession. And for someone who most cherishes his first All-Star appearance in 1998 because he matched up with Jordan, Bryant relishes passing his idol on the All -Star game's all-time scoring list. Bryant's passive off-ball movement and willingness for Durant to dominate the offense showed he didn't remain consumed with dominating the spotlight. That proved to be the perfect approach. As Bryant knows, a more important challenge defining his legacy awaits. RELATED: A-Rod: Kobe Bryant considered retirement last season Kobe Bryant putting together MVP-caliber season Relive Bryant's 4th All-Star MVP performance last season in L.A. More of Bryant's All-Star accomplishments --Mark Medina E-mail the Lakers blog at mgmedin@gmail.com Photo: West guard Kobe Bryant of the Lakers looks to drive around East guard Dwyane Wade of the Heat in the first half of the NBA All-Star game Sunday in Orlando, Fla. Credit: Erik Lesser / EPA / February 26, 2012