Kobe Bryant scored 38 points, had 12 rebounds and 7 assists and the Lakers edged out the Dallas Mavericks in Dallas, 103 – 99. Dirk Nowitzki returning from an injured knee scored 30 points with 13 rebounds. This was a huge win for the Lakers, especially on the road where they have really struggled to win. Wonder if Mark Cuban, Mavs owner, still thinks the Lakers should consider trading Kobe? Both teams are making a late season push to edge into playoff position, trailing the Houston Rockets, currently in the 8th spot, by 2.5 games and 3.5 games respectively. Kobe, Nash and Howard have all guaranteed a trip to the postseason for the Lakers. If they continue this kind of play, they will make good on that promise. The game was close throughout, three technical fouls were called, one on Kobe (his 13th of the year), and one on Dirk. Both a bit questionable. Kobe was on fire in the 4th period, hitting three points shots and outmaneuvering defenders left and right. Nash did his usual terrific job of distributing the ball (returning to the arena where he played so many seasons) scoring 20 points and Howard added 13 rebounds and 9 points. He also made some crucial free throws down the stretch.
Great win for the Lakers. They face another road test tomorrow in Denver.
Last night the Heat won their tenth in a row, defeating the 76ers 114 – 90. LeBron had a triple double.
Hey, LeBron may be the “King”, but Kobe rules! I am unapologetically a Lakers fan, a Kobe fan, and also a Pau Gasol fan (currently out due to injury). I still believe…go Lakers!
