Inside THE WEEK IN SPORTS

THE NBA
Bryant's expanding role with Lakers
Bulls coach hits rock bottom
Will China release Yao?

THE NHL
Older European defensemen make quick splash
Lightning's skilled skills coach
Refs to talk more

THE NFL
Free agency lessons
Cowboys' Smith sets sights on Payton and beyond
Broncos will miss Gibbs

COLOR PHOTO: PHOTOGRAPH BY DAMIAN STROHMEYER Lucky bounce After Lions running back James Stewart (34) fumbled against the Jets, Detroit guard Jeff Hartings recovered the ball in the end zone for the winning score.