Minneapolis, MN (Sports Network) - Kobe Bryant scored 24 points, and the Los Angeles Lakers used a strong defensive second half to beat the Minnesota Timberwolves, 90-79, at Target Center. The victory is the Lakers' 14th in a row over the Timberwolves, who haven't won in this series in nearly four years.
Pau Gasol finished with 17 rebounds and 12 points for the Lakers, who limited Minnesota to 34 points in the final two quarters. Los Angeles also dominated on the boards, holding a 53-39 rebounding advantage and a 28-7 margin in second-chance points. Kevin Love extended his double-double streak to 47 games, with 13 points and 11 boards, but shot just 2-for-10. Wesley Johnson netted 20 points to pace the Timberwolves, who have lost eight of nine.
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