Andrew Bynum scored 30 points and grabbed eight rebounds to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 103-97 win over the Denver Nuggets at Staples Center. With the victory, the Lakers clinched a playoff spot for the 59th time in 64 seasons as a franchise.
Bynum made 11 of 19 field goals and also blocked three shots and had three assists on the night for the Lakers (38-22). Matt Barnes added 24 points and 10 rebounds off the bench for Los Angeles, who got off to a 30-19 lead after one quarter and held on for the win.
The Lakers are 24-6 at home this season.
Andre Miller led the Nuggets with 20 points off the bench, and also had six rebounds and six assists. JaVale McGee added 14 points and 10 rebounds for the Nuggets. The Lakers are 20-4 all-time against the Nuggets at Staples Center.
The Lakers were without Kobe Bryant for a fourth straight game with a shin injury, and head coach Mike Brown missed Friday's contest for personal reasons. The Lakers continue their homestand on Sunday afternoon against the Dallas Mavericks.
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