Kobe Bryant hit four free throws in the final 16.7 seconds to give the Los Angeles Lakers a 105-102 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves Friday night at Target Center in Minneapolis. Pau Gasol also had a huge block of Derrick Williams for a potential go-ahead basket in the final seconds.
The Lakers have scored 100 points in just nine of 40 games this season, but they have reached the century mark in all three games against Minnesota, who they have beaten 18 straight times.
Andrew Bynum had 26 points and 10 rebounds for the Lakers, who shot 47.6% from the field. Gasol added 12 points, 11 boards, four assists and two blocks for the Lakers (24-16). The Lakers are 7-14 on the road this season.
Bryant scored 34 points to lead the Lakers, but made just 11 of 26 shots from the field. During the three-game road trip, Bryant shot just 33.7% (28 for 83) from the field.
Center Nikola Pekovic had a double-double for the Timberwolves (21-20) with 25 points and 13 rebounds. Minnesota shot 45.7% from the field.
Williams scored 22 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for Minnesota, and was added to the starting lineup after Kevin Love was scratched with back spasms. Love also missed a game against the Lakers last week in Los Angeles with flu-like symptoms.
The Lakers return home Sunday to host the Boston Celtics in a nationally televised game on ABC.
For more Lakers news and information, be sure to read Silver Screen and Roll.