Kobe Bryant scored 21 points on 9-of-12 shooting in the first half, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 55-48 halftime lead over the Denver Nuggets Tuesday night at Staples Center in Game 2 of their first round NBA playoff series. The Lakers led 32-25 after one quarter.
The Lakers hold a 1-0 series lead.
Andrew Bynum had 16 points, on 7-of-9 shooting, and six rebounds in the first half for the Lakers, who shot 53.3% (24 for 45) in the first half. Pau Gasol added six points and three rebounds.
Ty Lawson had eight points and five assists for the Nuggets, who shot 38.5% (20 for 52) in the opening Half. Kenneth Faried added eight points and six rebounds for the Nuggets.
The Lakers are 18-4 all-time in the playoffs against the Nuggets, including 10-2 in Los Angeles.
For more news and notes on the Lakers or this first round playoff series against Denver, be sure to read Silver Screen and Roll.