Matt Barnes had a perfect night, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 112-95 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center in Minneapolis Friday night. It was the third victory in as many games for the Lakers, who head home after a 3-0 road trip. The Lakers have beaten Minnesota 13 straight times.
Barnes led the Lakers with 24 points, in 24 minutes, but his night was much better than that. Barnes made all seven field goal attempts, including five three-pointers. Barnes made all five free throws for good measure as well. As if the scoring wasn't enough, Barnes also added seven rebounds and six assists. The last Lakers player to make at lease seven field goals without a miss was Andrew Bynum, who made all eight attempts last January 3 against Dallas.
Kevin Love, who had 23 points and 24 rebounds against the Lakers last week, was held to seven rebounds and no points in 34 minutes tonight. After the game, head coach Phil Jackson told reporters that he joked with Lamar Odom, "I know why Love made the USA Team now: he got to practice against you everyday." Odom responded well tonight on defense, and added 11 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists.
Kobe Bryant scored 23 points, on 8-of-27 shooting, and grabbed eight rebounds. Pau Gasol had 16 points and 14 rebounds for the Lakers, who are now 11-2 on the season. The Lakers host the Golden State Warriors on Sunday night at Staples Center.
For more Lakers news and information, be sure to read the SB Nation blog Silver Screen and Roll.