Kobe Bryant drops 37, Andrew Bynum pounds 21-22 as Lakers round the Houston Rockets 108-99: NBA
Kobe Bryant overcame some poor shooting form, and erupted with a game high 37 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists while Andrew Bynum continued his brilliant ways with 21 points and 22 rebounds – his second 20-20 game of the career – as the Los Angeles Lakers pulled away down the stretch to beat a spirited Houston Rockets side 108-99.
The Rockets had a poor shooting night, but found timely contribution from 4 of the 5 starter to stick with the Lakers deep into the fourth quarter, 89-93. However, Kobe Bryant took the game by the scruff of the neck after that.
The Black Mamba not only scored seven consecutive points in the next few minutes, but also displayed some spirited defense to ensure that the Lakers win their third consecutive home game against the Rockets. He was also the reason, why his opposite number Kevin Martin, Rockets’ top scorer in the season so far, managed only 12 points on a paltry 5 of 17. Martin spent most of the time guarding Bryant, or at least he tried to.
Pau Gasol, whose name was linked with Rockets in the failed Chris Paul deal, ended the night with 14 points and 8 boards while Steve Blake made 11 off the bench. The night however was overshadowed by the brilliance of Bynum, who for once has made the Lakers realize that they don’t need to worry about their centre in the years to come. Bynum’s front court partner, Gasol was all praise for the centre, who has started the season with a sensational average of 22.7 points and 17 rebounds;
"It's not just tonight, but the way he's played these three games," Gasol said of Bynum, who missed a career rebound high by a board. "He's been really aggressive, really decisive, and just pursuing every ball. I'm glad to see him with this level of intensity and energy, because it takes desire and will."
Houston Rockets coach Kevin McHale, who knows all about the dominance in the low post also admitted that Bynum made the difference on the night;
Their bigs hurt us in the paint. They did what I was afraid was going to happen."
The Rockets tried hard though and found good numbers from Kyle Lowry - 22 points, 10 rebounds and 9assists – and Luis Scola’s 20 points. Chase Budinger was once again hot from distance and made 4 of the seven attempted shots for 16 points.
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