Hot shooting propelled the Los Angeles Lakers to a 63-51 halftime lead over the New York Knicks Thursday night at Staples Center. Kobe Bryant scored 15 points to lead the Lakers, who shot a blistering 71.9% (23 for 32) from the field in the opening 24 minutes against the ole defense of the Knicks.
Carmelo Anthony scored 18 points to lead the Knicks, who shot 33.3% (12 for 36) from the field in the opening half.
The Lakers were down 19-14 midway through the first quarter, but turned that into a seven-point advantage by the end of the period, then a 45-29 lead with 7:32 remaining in the second quarter. In about ten and a half minutes, the Lakers outscored the Knicks 31-10.
Pau Gasol scored 10 points, grabbed four rebounds, and blocked two shots in the first half for the Lakers, who are looking for their second win in a row. The Lakers made their first five three-point shots they attempted: two by Jason Kapono, and one apiece from Steve Blake, Derek Fisher, and Metta World Peace; before Bryant missed one in the final minute.
For more Lakers news and information, be sure to read Silver Screen and Roll.