Dwight Howard went 25 for 39 from the free throw line in his return to Orlando on Tuesday, when the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Magic behind the center's 39-point, 16-rebound performance.

Kobe Bryant was impressed with Howard and believes the shooting effort from the free throw line could be a "big boost for his confidence" -- especially given all the taunting and intentional fouls.

"He wasn't distracted," Bryant said. "He wasn't down about coming back or anything like that. His energy propelled us. I think it will do wonders for him."