Final
Lakers, Magic look to bounce back
Dec 2, 2007 - 2:21 PM Orlando (14-4) at LA Lakers (9-7) 9:30 pm ESTLOS ANGELES (Ticker) -- Both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Orlando Magic are looking to rebound from recent setbacks when they meet Sunday.
Despite Dwight Howard's 30-point, 20-rebound performance, the Magic saw their four-game winning streak come to an end with Friday's 110-106 decision against the Phoenix Suns.
The 21-year-old Howard is having an MVP-type season, averaging 23.8 points and 15.0 rebounds. The former No. 1 overall selection also ranks among the league leaders with 15 double-doubles.
Howard could receive a challenge with the recent development of Lakers third-year center Andrew Bynum, who has grabbed at least 10 rebounds 11 times this season.
Los Angeles stumbled once again on the road, dropping a 120-96 decision to the shorthanded Utah Jazz on Friday. Superstar Kobe Bryant led the way with 28 points on 10-of-19 shooting.
"One of my coaches said we were as soft as Dairy Queen ice cream," Los Angeles coach Phil Jackson said.
On November 20, Orlando acquired forward Brain Cook and guard Maurice Evans in exchange for swingman Trevor Ariza, who has yet to find time in Jackson's triangle offense.
The Lakers have dominated this series, winning the past five matchups - including a slim 109-106 decision at the Staples Center last season.
- NBA
ORLANDO 104
LA LAKERS 97 FINAL
Dec 3 12:01 AM - NBA
ORLANDO 77
LA LAKERS 75 END, 3RD QTR
Dec 2 11:24 PM - NBA
ORLANDO 63
LA LAKERS 55 HALFTIME
Dec 2 10:39 PM - NBA
ORLANDO 24
LA LAKERS 30 END, 1ST QTR
Dec 2 10:06 PM
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