April 28th, 2010 
Stephen Rhodes 
Posted in 
I think it is a safe assumption that the Los Angeles Lakers learned a lesson from coach Phil Jackson after losing two consecutive games to the Oklahoma City Thunder in their best-of-seven series. Whether it is the “zen” he thrust upon them or gave them a tongue-lashing, no one really knows.
During the Lakers’ game against the Thunder at Staples Center, whatever Jackson did before tip-off worked; Los Angeles would lead from the opening tip until the final horn, making short work of Oklahoma City 111-87 at Staples Center and take a 3-2 lead in their series.
The Lakers led 31-16 after one quarter and steadily pushed the advantage going into the intermission, leading 55-34 on a Kobe Bryant jumper with 7.7 seconds left in the half. Los Angeles would coast for the remainder of the game, securing the victory.
Pau Gasol led the Lakers with 25 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, a teal and a block while Andrew Bynum added 21 with 11 rebounds, an assist and 2 blocks; Ron Artest and Jordan Farmar chipped in 14 each – with Artest grabbing 2 rebounds, dishing out 5 assists, along with 2 steals and 2 blocks while Farmar grabbed 2 boards, along with a steal.
The Thunder were led by Durant with 17 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists while Russell Westbrook added 15 with 5 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 steals, but also committing 8 turnovers.
Los Angeles hopes to close the series when they travel to Ford Center to take on Oklahoma City Friday night.
Tags: 
