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Artest, Kings search for third consecutive win

Jan 4, 2007 - 2:44 PM LA Lakers (20-11) at Sacramento (14-15) 10:30 pm EST

SACRAMENTO, California (Ticker) -- The Sacramento Kings might be hitting their stride just at the right moment.

Ron Artest and the Kings aim for their third straight win Thursday when they welcome Kobe Bryant and the Pacific Division rival Los Angeles Lakers.

The Kings have won four of their last five games, including three straight here. They also have won the last three meetings against Los Angeles at Arco Arena.

Known primarily for his defensive prowess, Artest scored a career-high 39 points in Tuesday's 112-100 triumph over the New York Knicks.

Artest on Thursday will have to lock down Bryant, who scored 35 points in Sunday's 104-94 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers.

The reigning Western Conference Player of the Month, Bryant averaged 30.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 5.4 assists in the month of December.

With forward Lamar Odom already sidelined with a knee injury, the Lakers also will have to make do without Kwame Brown, who suffered a sprained ankle Sunday.

Thursday's contest marks the first meeting this season between Los Angeles and Sacramento. The teams split their season series in 2005-06, with each protecting home-court advantage.