Lakers reserves can’t pull through at Thursday’s game against Cavaliers

The Lakers were unable to pull through against major rival the Cleveland Cavaliers Thursday in a game where Los Angeles’ usually stellar reserves only scored a total of seven points - none of which came in the fourth quarter, when the Lakers needed help the most, according to an article published Thursday, Dec. 20 by the LA Daily News.

“The bench has been phenomenal for us all year,” guard Derek Fisher said. “There are going to be some nights when they won’t be able to get it going. We just have to live with that. There have been nights when, as starters, we weren’t playing well and they came in and got us back in the game.”

Falling 94-90 to the Cavaliers came as a low blow to Kobe Bryant, who was in direct competition with Cleveland’s LeBron James - Bryant and James currently stand as the two highest scorers in the league. The Lakers, who had the lead during a portion of the game by more than elven points, have cut their winning streak down to six out of the last eight games it has played. Bryant, who has been scoring an average of 26.8 points per game, was recovering from a mild groin injury and still managed to power through the last game against the Chicago Bulls with 18 points during 36 minutes of play. The NBA star was looking for his best performance last night against big-time rival James, who challenges Bryant for top scorer in the league with an average of 29.6 points per game.

With the close competition between Bryant and James, plus the new motivation the Lakers have walking away from Thursday’s near win  and grueling  loss, it’s no wonder fans are rushing to get their tickets for upcoming games in the New Year, including match ups against New York, Phoenix, Utah and Boston. And don’t forget about tonight’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Coach Phil Jackson, who is one game away from tying Dick Motta for eighth place with 935 wins in his entire career, said he could only hope to live up to the legend of Motta.

“Oh, my goodness,” Jackson said of approaching Motta’s mark. “Just memories of Dick and what a coach he was. It seemed like he coached forever.”

Still haven’t purchased a pair of Lakers tickets? Secure your seats right here and right now at Stubhub.com and be sure to bring friends and family!

Posted in General on December 21, 2007

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