The Los Angeles Lakers completed a second straight home-heavy week with a 3-1 record, including a scoring spree from Kobe Bryant that has seen him average 38 points per game over an eight-game stretch, including four straight games of 40 points or more. This week, however, the Lakers have a rough schedule ahead, including a pair of road games in Florida that will provide a tough test. Here is a look at the schedule for the week ahead for the Lakers.
Monday - Dallas Mavericks at Lakers, 7:30 p.m.: The Lakers have revenge on their mind, looking for some payback for their sweep in the second round at the hands of Dallas, but the Mavericks come into town a hot team. Dallas has won five straight games, and maybe on Monday we'll see if Lamar Odom has stopped pouting by now.
Thursday - Lakers at Miami Heat, 5 p.m.: The Heat may be without Dwyane Wade, who is dealing with foot and ankle problems, but facing LeBron James at home is never an easy battle.
Friday - Lakers at Orlando Magic, 5 p.m.: Call this a scouting trip if you will, as the Lakers will get a good look at Orlando center Dwight Howard while the Magic get to see Andrew Bynum up close.
Sunday - Indiana Pacers at Lakers, 6:30 p.m.: The Lakers end their week with a home battle against the frisky Pacers, who begin the week as the number two seed in the Eastern Conference.
After a long stretch with hard fought and close home wins against mediocre teams, the Lakers face a real test this week to find out just where they are at this season. The four teams they face this week have a combined record of 33-15 (.688).
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