The match was a fast paced affair, and unfortunately for the Lakers, they had to play the Suns the very next day. The Lakers were once again without Bryant and Gasol, and the old roster was unable to sweep the back-to-back.
The Suns hammered the Lakers in Arizona and they took over the second half with their tenacity and explosiveness. Luckily for Los Angeles, Bryant and Gasol returned to the lineup for the final game of the week.
With a full starting five on the court, the Lakers handled the Wizards in the first half, but they completely fell apart late in the game. Bryant could not hit a game tying shot in the final seconds and the Lakers fell to the struggling Wizards.
Lakers Nation Game Recaps:
Los Angeles hosted the Sacramento Kings Sunday night and it was the first full game without Kobe Bryant. Bryant suffered a severe ankle sprain last week and the Lakers had to find a way to fill the void. Luckily, the lowly Kings were on their radar and the efforts of Dwight Howard and Steve Nash proved to be enough to trump Sacramento.
The Los Angeles Lakers always have a tough time against the Phoenix Suns and it is due to the fact that the Lakers do not have a lot athletic players on their roster. The game was close throughout the first half, but Los Angeles lost it’s grip in the final two quarters. The Lakers have not won both games of a back-to-back this season, and they failed to accomplish the feat Monday night.
The Washington Wizards came to Staples Center on Friday night and they were welcomed by the return of Kobe and Gasol. The Lakers dominated the game early on and held a double-digit lead for most of the time. However, in the second half, the Wizards turned to a different gear and caught on fire. John Wall and Trevor Ariza led the comeback and the upset win over Los Angeles.
Lakers Nation News:
Fans showed their support for Kobe Bryant and his wax figure.
Jerry West believes the Lakers can make some noise in the post season.
Dwight Howard talked about his early season struggles.
Kobe Bryant talks about why he is wearing an arm sleeve.
Howard touched on his relationship with Kobe Bryant.
Antawn Jamison discusses Howard’s recent strong play.
Jerry West reflects on the record setting 1971-72 Lakers team.
Jamison: “I came here to win championships.”
Howard is doing his best not to complain to the referees.
Steve Nash attended L.A. kid’s Bar Mitzvah
Dwight Howard parted ways with manager Kevin Samples.
Mike D’Antoni wants more of a balanced offensive attack.
Kobe Bryant is not paying attention to the Miami Heat’s streak.
Jordan Hill may return to the lineup in late April or early May.
Bryant also dealt with the flu while rehabbing his ankle.