Tonight, the Los Angeles Lakers (18-3) hosted the Sacramento Kings (6-16) at the Staples Center.
Four nights ago, the Kings surprised the Lakers with a victory in Sacramento. The Lakers came out looking for revenge tonight. Before the night was over, Kobe and the Lakers would have their say.
Bryant and the strong bench would lead the Lakers to a 112-103 win.
He came out quickly in the first quarter, shooting the first three times he touched the ball. He scored 10 points in the first quarter. Spencer Hawes had four points and five first quarter rebounds for the Kings. The Lakers led 33-27.
The game got physical in the second quarter. Both teams frequently complained about the officiating. The Kings made some shots and ended the half on a 15-4 run. The teams went to the half tied at 52.
Kobe had 14 at the half for the Lakers, as did John Salmons for the Kings.
The Lakers came out in the third quarter and showed that they were clearly the better team. They dominated at both ends and built a lead. Going into the fourth quarter, the score was 84-72 in favor of the Lakers.
In the fourth, the Kings made a run and cut the lead to three points with three minutes left. That was as close as they would get. The Kings missed a couple of key free throws and Andrew Bynum had a couple of huge dunks before fouling out with a minute left in the game. The Lakers closed out and went home with the win.
Kobe finished with 32 points. Pau Gasol added 18 points and 11 rebounds for the Lakers. John Salmons had 26 for the losing Kings.
Kevin Martin missed another game for the Kings due to his injured ankle. Fransisco Garcia started in his place.
The Kings host the Knicks tomorrow night.
