The NBA All-Star Weekend was so fun and successful in Los Angeles, it almost made us forget about just how badly the Lakers were playing before the break. Kobe Bryant and the Lakers will try to start their stretch run with a game against the Atlanta Hawks at Staples Center.The Lakers are trying to snap a three-game losing streak.
Two players from each team took part in Sunday's All-Star Game at Staples Center. Kobe was busy winning MVP honors with 37 points and 14 rebounds, while teammate Pau Gasol chipped in with 17 points and seven boards. Joe Johnson of the Hawks scored 11 points in 20 minutes off the bench for the East. His teammate, Al Horford, who was part of the Shooting Stars winning team on Saturday night, added two points and 10 minutes on Sunday.
This is the first meeting between the Lakers and Hawks this season. The two teams meet again in Atlanta on March 8. The Lakers, who are 19-8 at home this season, have beaten the Hawks four straight times at Staples Center. The Hawks are 17-12 on the road this season.
For more information on tonight's game, be sure to read Silver Screen and Roll.